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An LCL injury occurs when the lateral collateral ligament becomes damaged through a twist,fall, collision or other injury to the knee. An injured LCL can reduce the stability of the knee and decrease the outer support of the knee during athletic activity.
Injuries can vary in severity, ranging from a minor sprain to a complete tear of the ligament. Because of the force necessary to rupture the LCL, complete tears are rare.
Injuries usually occur during an activity involving a direct blow to the knee or lower leg, especially when the knee is bent and the lower leg is forced outward.
Lesser injuries can be treated non-surgically based on the symptoms present, although a completely torn ligament will likely require surgery. LCL surgery reconstructs the ligament by direct repair of the torn ligament or reconstruction depending on the severity and chronicity of the injury. In extreme cases where the ligament is irrepairable, reinforcement with a tendon graft is considered.
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