[External rotational instability of the knee].

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Sports Medicine
• Knee Ligament Injuries

Background:

• Post-traumatic knee laxity, particularly unstable lateral rotation, often stems from a specific injury.
• The medial capsular ligament rupture is identified as the primary anatomical cause of this instability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the efficacy of a surgical technique for knee ligament injuries.
• To evaluate the treatment of unstable lateral rotation due to medial capsular ligament rupture.

Main Methods:

• Clinical demonstration of abnormal postero-anterior tibial movement during lateral rotation.
• Surgical intervention using D. Slocum's technique: displacement of the patellar tendon.
• Application of Slocum's operation at the Strasburg Accident Centre.

Main Results:

• The surgical treatment addresses the specific lesion of medial capsular ligament rupture.
• Early outcomes of Slocum's operation in the Strasburg cohort are encouraging.
• Acknowledges that this rupture often co-exists with other knee injuries requiring additional treatment.

Conclusions:

• Medial capsular ligament rupture is a key factor in post-traumatic knee instability with lateral rotation.
• Patellar tendon displacement surgery offers a viable treatment option with positive initial results.
• Comprehensive management is necessary for associated ligamentous or meniscal lesions.