Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL)

What is a Lateral Collateral Ligament?

Lateral collateral ligament (LCL) is a thin set of tissues present on the outer side of the knee, connecting the thighbone (femur) to the fibula (side bone of lower leg). It provides stability as well as limits the sidewise rotation of the knee. Tear or injury of LCL may cause instability of the knee that can be either reconstructed or repaired to regain the strength and movement of the knee.

The knee is the largest joint of the body and is stabilized by a set of ligaments. In the knee, there are four primary ligaments viz. anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), medial collateral ligament (MCL) and lateral collateral ligament.

Causes of LCL Injuries

Lateral collateral ligament may tear due to trauma, sports injuries, or a direct blow on the knee. Torn LCL may result in pain, swelling and even instability of the knee.

Diagnosis of LCL Injuries

LCL injuries and torn LCL can be diagnosed through a physical examination and by employing imaging techniques such as X-rays or MRI scan.

Treatment of LCL Injuries

The treatment of the torn LCL includes non-surgical interventions such as rest, ice, elevation, bracing and physical therapy to help reduce swelling, and regain activity as well as strength and flexibility of the knee. Surgery is recommended if non-surgical interventions fail to provide much relief. Surgical interventions include repair and reconstruction of the torn ligament. Based on the severity and location of the injury, repair or reconstruction of the LCL is recommended. In case the ligament is torn from the upper or lower ends of attachment, then repair of the LCL is done with sutures or staples. If the ligament is torn in the middle or if the injury is older than 3 weeks, LCL reconstruction is recommended.

Treatment of LCL Injuries

LCL Reconstruction Procedure

LCL reconstruction involves replacement of the torn ligament with healthy strong tissue or graft. The tissue or graft can be taken either from the tissue bank (called allograft) or from the patient's body (called autograft). The type of graft used, depends upon the condition of the patient and choice of your surgeon. Hamstring tendons are commonly used as autograft, as removal of such tendons does not affect the strength of the legs and effectively stabilizes the knee. A small incision is made on the lateral side of the knee to perform the LCL reconstruction. The procedure is done through an open incision and not arthroscopically. The thighbone and fibula bones are drilled precisely and accurately with specialized instruments to form tunnels. The ends of the tendon graft are passed through tunnels and are fixed by using screws, metal staples or large sutures. The knee which has undergone LCL reconstruction surgery is braced for 6-8 weeks.

Postoperative care following LCL Reconstruction

The common Postoperative instructions for LCL reconstruction are:

Use crutches to avoid weight on the knee for at least 6 weeks
Use ice and the prescribed medications to reduce swelling
Avoid lifting heavy weights or vigorous exercise
Follow the specific instructions given by your surgeon
Follow rehabilitation programs or physical therapy to regain the motion and strength of the knee

Risks and complications of LCL Reconstruction

Some of the possible risks and complications associated with LCL reconstruction include:

Chronic pain
Knee weakness
Knee instability
Peroneal nerve injury