Combined articular and ligament reconstructions in neglected fracture-dislocation of the knee

The management of neglected traumatic knee dislocations is challenging and is commonly associated with suboptimal outcomes. In this article we present two cases of neglected knee dislocations in two young trauma victims who presented late due to restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Two young patients presented at our center with neglected knee fracture-dislocations after eight weeks and six months of trauma. Comprehensive evaluation was performed using radiographs, computed tomography scans, and magnetic resonance imaging. Surgical intervention included open reduction and internal fixation of the mal-aligned intra-articular fracture fragments. Additionally, articular congruency was restored and repair or reconstruction of the posterior cruciate ligament, anterior cruciate ligament, and meniscus was conducted using suitable tendinous autografts and implants. Following surgery, the knees were immobilized for six weeks, followed by aggressive physical therapy.

After three months of surgical intervention, fracture union and joint stability were achieved. At the >36-month follow-up appointments, both patients were pain-free at rest with a stable knee joint, achieving ≥90 degrees of knee flexion and without extensor deficits. Concurrent with radiographic evidence of osteoarthritic changes in the knee joint, there was mild pain (VAS 2) after prolonged knee movement activities and walking for long distances (>1 km).

Open reduction and internal fixation, along with simultaneous menisco-ligamentous reconstructions in neglected fracture-dislocations of the knee result in satisfactory clinical outcomes. This approach proves to be an effective joint preservation procedure in young patients, even in delayed and neglected conditions.