Medial collateral ligament partial release in knee arthroscopy: different techniques and functional outcomes

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Knee Arthroscopy
• Ligament Reconstruction

Background:

• Medial collateral ligament (MCL) lengthening is a surgical technique used to address knee joint tightness.
• Arthroscopic approaches offer minimally invasive options for knee procedures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review literature on percutaneous MCL lengthening techniques, outcomes, and complications.
• To provide data to aid surgeons in adopting this arthroscopic procedure.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature review adhering to PICOS and PRISMA guidelines.
• Analysis of 9 studies including adult patients undergoing arthroscopic MCL lengthening.

Main Results:

• No perioperative complications like chondral damage or fractures were reported.
• Postoperative bracing was used in some cases for 4 weeks; others reported no bracing.
• Mild pain at the needle tract was the primary complication, resolving within 15 days. No nerve or vascular injuries occurred.

Conclusions:

• Percutaneous MCL lengthening is an effective procedure with minimal risks for tight medial knee compartments.
• The technique can be recommended for surgeons performing arthroscopic posteromedial compartment surgery.
• Healing is not compromised, and complication risks do not increase without postoperative bracing.