DAMAGE TO LIGAMENTS

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The ligaments of the knee joint are very important structures that act as shock absorbers and passive stabilizers of the knee. We have the medial and lateral ligaments, which differ in structure and biomechanics. Ligament injuries in the knee joint are one of the most common pathologies, usually occurring as a result of a twisting injury during activity or everyday actions such as squatting, kneeling, getting up from a low chair, or getting out of a car.

Damage to the knee ligaments may present with pain, swelling, and limited range of motion of the knee joint, and sometimes joint locking without the ability to fully extend or flex the knee. The symptoms may be more pronounced on the side of the injury and depend on the type and degree of damage.

There are many types of ligament injuries, from degenerative damage, which is the progressive degradation of the ligament, to various types of traumatic injuries. The treatment and post-injury management depend on the type of ligament damage, which is why proper and accurate diagnosis is essential.

The diagnosis of ligament injuries in the knee joint involves a physical examination, including the performance of specific ligament tests, as well as imaging studies such as X-rays and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Non-operative treatment for ligament injuries in the knee joint includes anti-inflammatory and anti-edema measures, physiotherapy, and strengthening exercises for the muscles around the knee joint. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection into the damaged area may also be used to stimulate tissue regeneration and accelerate the healing process.

Surgical treatment for ligament injuries in the knee joint usually involves repairing the unstable fragment of the damaged ligament or suturing its structures. The surgery is performed arthroscopically, which means making two small incisions in the skin and working inside the joint with the visualization provided by an arthroscope camera. Rehabilitation and physiotherapy exercises are necessary after surgery to restore full functionality of the knee joint.

In summary, damage to the ligaments of the knee joint is a serious injury that can lead to significant functional limitations and the progression of degenerative joint disease. Diagnosis and treatment should be tailored individually depending on the type and extent of the damage. Non-operative treatment, such as physiotherapy and platelet-rich plasma injections, may be beneficial for certain types of injuries. However, surgical treatment, such as ligament repair, suturing, or even ligament transplantation, may be necessary for more severe damage.

At MIRAI, the following individual specializes in the knee area:
Tomasz Szymański – material development
Michał Drwięga
Konrad Słynarski
Agnieszka Wintrowicz
Karol Kosterna
Marcin Gruba
Bartosz Dominik
Patryk Ulicki
Dariusz Grzelecki
Michał Bartoszewicz
Anna Krześniak

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