INTRODUCTION​

• The lateral collateral ligament (LCL) is one of the major knee ligaments providing stability to the knee

• The primary function of the LCL is to prevent the leg bone from turning in (varus) relative to the thigh bone

• The LCL is intimately associated with other knee structures, comprising the posterolateral corner (PLC) of the knee

• LCL tears often occur in the setting of multiple ligament injury, rarely occur in isolation

• Injury to the LCL and PLC can lead to knee instability 

• 10% of knee ligament injuries involve the LCL and PLC

CAUSES

• Mechanism is either a direct or indirect force directed on the inside of the knee (varus stress)

• Contact LCL injuries are more common than noncontact, and are often in athletes

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

• LCL tears are almost always associated with a pop followed by immediate pain in the outside (lateral side) of the knee

• Knee bruising and mild swelling can be seen after LCL tears

TREATMENT​​

• In patients with isolated or low grade LCL tears, conservative management can be considered. Conservative management includes a short course of immobilization and bracing, followed by a course of physical therapy and rehab to strengthen the dynamic stabilizers of the knee joint

• In patients with combined ligament or high grade LCL tears with instability, surgery can be considered. Treatment consists of LCL repair or reconstruction