Diagnostic and Management Strategies for Multiligament Knee Injuries: A Critical Analysis Review

Multiligament knee injuries have a strong association with periarticular soft-tissue and neurovascular injuries, which must not be overlooked in the initial evaluation of the patient. Even though magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is imperative for a complete evaluation of the damaged ligamentous knee restraints, stress radiography aids in establishing the functional consequence of the MRI findings and may assist in directing reconstruction. Although cruciate ligament tears are generally reconstructed, a combined repair-reconstruction approach is most useful for collateral ligaments and extra-articular structures, with incorporation of local tissue into the reconstruction whenever possible. Regardless of the timing and operative technique chosen, patients with multiligament knee injuries are at high risk for complications and long-term disability.