Comparative study of superficial medial collateral ligament reconstruction combined with posterior oblique ligament reconstruction or posteromedial capsule advance in grade III injuries of the medial compartment in a complex knee injury scenario

Abstract

BackgroundThe purpose of this study was to compare the combined reconstruction of the superficial medial collateral ligament (sMCL) and the posterior oblique ligament (POL) with the reconstruction of the sMCL associated with the advancement of the posteromedial capsule in a complex knee injury scenario. We hypothesized that both techniques would present similar knee stability and failure rates. MethodsThis is a retrospective case–control study designed to compare the results of the two reported techniques for grade III MCL instability. Patients undergoing MCL reconstruction associated with anterior cruciate ligament, posterior cruciate ligament, or both, from 2010 to 2019, were included. The following parameters were evaluated: demographic data, type of graft, time from injury to surgery, associated meniscus injuries, follow up time, mechanism of trauma, postoperative objective IKDC, subjective IKDC and Lysholm scales, range of motion, reconstruction failure and complications. ResultsSeventy-eight patients were evaluated, 37 of whom underwent reconstruction of the sMCL and POL, and 41 of whom underwent reconstruction of the sMCL with advancement of posteromedial structures. There was no difference in any preoperative variable. Patients undergoing reconstruction of the sMCL + advancement had greater loss of flexion (Group 1 3.4 ± 4.6 vs Group 2 8.4 ± 7.9; P = 0.002) and more individuals with flexion loss greater than 10° (Group 1, seven patients (18.9%) vs Group 2, 17 patients (41.5%); P = 0.031). Postoperative knee stability, failures and complications were similar between groups. ConclusionBoth techniques presented good functional results and low rates of complications. However, the advancement technique showed greater flexion loss, which should be considered when choosing the best surgical option.