Treatments
MCL, LCL and PLC Injuries
The collateral and posterolateral corner ligaments are key stabilisers of the knee. Mr Rehmatullah assesses and treats acute and chronic injuries of the MCL, LCL and PLC — from bracing and rehabilitation through to repair and reconstruction in multiligament injuries.
The ligaments
Understanding MCL, LCL and PLC Injuries
These ligaments work together to control side-to-side and rotational stability of the knee. Injuries range from low-grade sprains that heal with bracing and rehabilitation, to complete tears and multiligament injuries that require surgical reconstruction.
MCL (Medial Collateral Ligament)
The most commonly injured knee ligament, usually from a blow to the outside of the knee. Most isolated MCL injuries heal well with a hinged brace and structured rehabilitation.
LCL (Lateral Collateral Ligament)
Stabilises the outer side of the knee. Isolated LCL tears are rare and complete tears usually require surgical repair or reconstruction to restore stability.
PLC (Posterolateral Corner)
A group of structures essential for rotational control. Missed PLC injuries are a common cause of ACL reconstruction failure, so accurate diagnosis is critical.
Treatment
Non-Operative and Surgical Treatment
Treatment is tailored to the grade and pattern of injury, the other structures involved, and your activity goals. Many isolated injuries can be managed non-operatively, while higher-grade and multiligament injuries benefit from early surgical reconstruction.
Bracing & rehabilitation
Most isolated MCL injuries are treated in a hinged knee brace with progressive physiotherapy to restore range of motion, strength and stability.
Acute repair
Where indicated, early repair of avulsion-type injuries can preserve native tissue and give excellent outcomes when performed in the first few weeks.
Reconstruction
Chronic instability and complete tears are reconstructed using autograft or allograft tissue with anatomic techniques to restore stability.
Multiligament reconstruction
Combined injuries (ACL/PCL with MCL, LCL or PLC) are addressed in a single staged operation where possible, followed by a carefully supervised rehabilitation programme.
Recovery
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Recovery depends on the ligaments involved and whether surgery was performed. A typical pathway after reconstruction involves a period of brace protection, gradual return to weight bearing and a structured rehabilitation programme leading back to sport.