Lateral Knee Pain Research Articles

The role of anterolateral complex surgery and slope-reducing osteotomies in revision ACL reconstructions: a narrative review.

Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) failures occur for various reasons including residual laxity, untreated concomitant injuries, poor graft quality, and high tibial slope. Various additional procedures can help to decrease revision ACLR failures including anterolateral complex (ALC) procedures and slope-reducing osteotomies for patients with high tibial slopes. This narrative review aims to review the literature on the roles of ALC augmentation procedures and slope-reducing osteotomies in the setting of patients undergoing revision ACLRs. A narrative review of relevant literature was performed in July 2024. Studies about anterolateral complex reconstructions and slope-reducing osteotomies in revision ACLRs were included. The literature reported that lateral extra-articular tenodesis (LET) and anterolateral ligament reconstructions (ALLR) can be used in revision ACLR cases to significantly reduce clinical knee laxity and the risk of repeated graft failure. There is not currently a strong opinion on which ALC procedure is superior. There are reported slight differences in lateral knee pain and knee stiffness, but both similarly significantly improve clinical and functional outcomes. In revision ACLR cases that also have a high posterior tibial slope (PTS), a slope-reducing tibial osteotomy is warranted. An anterior closing wedge proximal tibial osteotomy (ACW-PTO) significantly reduces anterior tibial translation and graft failure. There is concern about the changes to patellar height, but the literature has found that such changes are either slight or absent by 6 months postoperatively. The risk of ACLR failure is increased by risk factors like high tibial slope, preoperative knee laxity, and prior ACLR rupture. Anterolateral complex procedures and slope-reducing osteotomies may be used to address these specific concerns and reduce the risk of graft rupture. For revision ACLR cases with lower PTS, augmentation with a LET or an ALLR to reduce the risk of graft failure and improve rotational stability may be warranted. In the setting of a revision ACLR in patients with a high PTS of ≥12°, a concomitant ACW-PTO and ALC procedure should be considered to decrease the risk of an ACLR graft failure.

Atraumatic Lateral Knee Pain With Inner Thigh “Bubble” - Driving And Climbing Stairs

Atraumatic Lateral Knee Pain With Inner Thigh “Bubble” - Driving And Climbing Stairs

Atypical Cause Of Lateral Knee Pain In A High School Football Athlete

Atypical Cause Of Lateral Knee Pain In A High School Football Athlete

Hypermobile Anterior Horn of the Lateral Meniscus: A Retrospective Case-Series Study of Presentation, Imaging, Treatment, and Outcomes.

Background and Objectives: Hypermobility of the lateral meniscus is typically associated with the posterior part of this structure, with occurrences in the anterior part rarely reported. However, a hypermobile anterior horn of the lateral meniscus can manifest clinical symptoms. This study aimed to increase awareness regarding hypermobility in the anterior horn of the lateral meniscus by presenting its clinical presentations, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings, arthroscopic findings, treatment approaches, postoperative protocols, and clinical outcomes. Materials and Methods: A retrospective case-series involving patients diagnosed as having hypermobile anterior horn of the lateral meniscus through arthroscopy. The clinical presentations, preoperative image findings, arthroscopic findings, treatments, postoperative protocols, and clinical outcomes following meniscal stabilization were all reviewed. Results: A total of 17 patients (17 knees) with a mean age of 45.9 ± 18.4 years were analyzed. The mean follow-up period was 18.2 ± 7.6 months (range, 6-24 months). Primary symptoms included anterior lateral knee pain, tenderness in the lateral joint lines, and a locking sensation in six of the knees. MRI revealed hypodense lesions anterior to the meniscus, fluid accumulation, degenerative changes, and anterior horn deformities. Following meniscal stabilization, the Lysholm Knee Scoring Scale score increased from 65.8 ± 12.7 before surgery to 91.1 ± 9.6 at the final follow-up (p < 0.001). All the analyzed knees achieved a full range of motion by the final follow-up, with no patient experiencing any complication or requiring reoperation. Conclusions: There is no specific sign or test that can be used to detect a hypermobile anterior horn of the lateral meniscus. A thorough arthroscopic examination is essential for diagnosing hypermobility in the anterior horn of the lateral meniscus. Arthroscopic meniscal stabilization yields favorable outcomes.

Osteochondritis Dissecans of the Knee: A Case Report

Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) is a focal, idiopathic alteration of subchondral bone with the potential for instability and disruption of adjacent articular cartilage causing pain or discomfort in the knee and, if left untreated, may cause increasing disability and progressive arthritic change of the joint. This article presents a case study of a 16-year-old female who presented with intermittent right lateral knee pain for several years with no acute traumatic injury. Diagnostic imaging demonstrated subchondral changes of the lateral femoral condyle consistent with osteochondritis dissecans. The patient was diagnosed with an unstable OCD of the right knee and underwent surgical treatment. Following treatment, the patient attended formal physical therapy two times per week and began a gradual return to sport protocol at 4 months post-operatively. This case study will demonstrate the complexities surrounding the clinical presentation, diagnostic workup, and treatment options for this challenging diagnosis. The importance of accurate imaging and aggressive treatment of unstable OCD lesions will be highlighted.

Patellar Tendon-Lateral Femoral Condyle Friction Syndrome: About 5 Cases

Objective: The objective is to illustrate the MR imaging findings occurring in the posterior inferolateral patellar tendon and the lateral femoral condyle in patients experiencing chronic anterior and/or lateral knee pain. Material and methods: A retrospective review of the MR images in (patients who presented with chronic anterior or lateral knee pain. In all patients, postcontrast images were available. Results: Sagittal and axial imaging planes best demonstrated the patellar tendon and its relationship with the lateral femoral condyle. In all the patients, there was obliteration of the fat planes and abnormal signal intensity in the lateral soft tissues of the inferior patellofemoral joint. Enhancement after administration of gadolinium was noted in all cases in which contrast was administered. One patient showed cystic changes in the soft tissues adjacent to the lateral femoral condyle in addition to fat plane obliteration. Abnormal patellar alignment was noted in one patient. Patellar tendon pathology was seen in one patient. Conclusion: When assessing anterior knee symptoms, MR imaging facilitates the identification of changes associated with patellar tendon-lateral femoral condyle friction syndrome, which should be differentiated from other causes of anterior or lateral knee pain.

Outcome of combined anatomic reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament with anterolateral ligament reconstruction versus with iliotibial band tenodesis

Abstract Background Isolated anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears without anterolateral structures injuries are treated successfully by isolated reconstruction of ACL. However, most ACL injuries are associated with the injuries of anterolateral stabilizers of the knee; mainly the iliotibial tract (ITB) and the anterolateral ligament (ALL). If ACL is only reconstructed in such a case, the incidence of postoperative rotational instability reaches 18%. New directions guided towards combined ACL reconstruction with extraarticular anatomical and nonanatomical reconstructions to improve knee rotation and translation and prevent pivot shift phenomena. Patients and methods We retrospectively reviewed all patients operated on for combined injuries of ACL and anterolateral stabilizers from February 2019 to February 2021. Preoperatively and postoperatively, all patients were examined clinically by knee stability tests: anterior drawer, Lachman, and pivot shift tests, applying the International Knee Documentation Committee score and return time to the sport. Results Forty patients were included with a mean age of 28 ± 8.33 years (range, 18–44 years). Patients were divided into two groups, group A 20 patients (18 males and two females) were treated by combined ACL with ALL reconstruction, and group B 20 patients (18 males and two females) were treated by combined ACL with ITB tenodesis. Sports injuries were the cause in 15 patients in group A and 14 in group B, while five injuries were due to nonsport activity in group A and six in group B. The mean follow-up period was 33.5 ± 2.1 months. Median postoperative subjective International Knee Documentation Committee scores in groups A and B were 95.4 and 94.25, respectively, without any statistically significant difference. Group A shows better postoperative improvement in pivot shift and one-leg hop test than group B with a significant difference (P&lt;0.05). Conclusion No significant difference between ALL reconstruction or ITB tenodesis with ACL reconstruction according to subjective knee functions but there was a significant difference according to objective functions, also lateral knee pain was reported in group B and not observed in group A.

Impact of lateral meniscus injury detected by preoperative magnetic resonance imaging on midterm results after unicompartmental knee arthroplasty

BackgroundThe significance of lateral meniscus injury and its impact on success rates with medial unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) is still debated among scholars. This study aims to investigate whether preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings of lateral meniscus injury influence midterm outcomes following UKA. MethodsThis study recruited 104 patients who underwent medial mobile-bearing UKA. Based on the extent of lateral meniscus injury indicated by the preoperative MRI and Stoller's classification system, patients were divided into two groups: the normal group (grade 0), and the lateral meniscus injury group (grade 3). Further, preoperative demographic and clinical outcome data (Hospital for Special Surgery score, lateral knee pain, squatting, and knee extension ability) were compared at least 2 years postoperatively. ResultsNo statistically significant difference in knee function or clinical outcome was found between the normal group (n = 59) and the lateral meniscus injury group (n = 45). During the 39.2 months (range: 24–64 months), no patient required any reoperation or revision procedures. ConclusionIn summary, the presence of lateral meniscus injury as determined by preoperative MRI does not affect the midterm results after UKA. Without additional treatment for lateral meniscus injury, UKA can yield desired outcomes regardless of the presence of lateral meniscus injury on preoperative MRI.

Iliotibial band friction syndrome after knee cementoplasty: a case report.

Iliotibial band pathologies can result in lateral knee pain. These are commonly seen in runners and cyclists. Lateral knee pain following knee arthroplasty can be due to distal iliotibial band enthesopathy or impingement by the femoral component. Cementoplasty is a common procedure performed during treatment of osseous lesions. We describe a case of ITB friction syndrome due to small focus of cement following cementoplasty for GCT (giant cell tumour).

Effect of Schatzker type VI tibial plateau fractures combined with a proximal fibular and/or posterolateral joint facet fracture on early postoperative functional recovery

PurposeThe objective of this study was to investigate the effect of proximal fibular and/or posterolateral joint facet (PJF) fractures on early functional recovery after Schatzker type VI tibial plateau fractures (TPFs).MethodsSeventy-nine patients with Schatzker type VI TPFs sustained from November 2016 to February 2021 were divided into three groups according to the integrity of the proximal fibula and PJF (groups A, B, and C). Details including demographics, duration of surgery, and complications were recorded. The Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis index (WOMAC) score, Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) score, lateral knee pain and lateral hamstring tightness were ascertained at the final follow-up. The HSS and WOMAC scores have high reliability in evaluating knee function and osteoarthritis.ResultsThere was a significant difference in the HSS score between groups A and C (P < 0.001) and between groups B and C (P = 0.036). The hospital stay was significantly different between groups A and C (P = 0.038) and between groups B and C (P = 0.013). There was a significant difference in lateral knee pain and lateral hamstring tightness between groups A and C (P < 0.001) and between groups B and C (P < 0.001).ConclusionOur study demonstrates that proximal fibular and PJF fractures do not increase the time from injury to surgery, the incidence of complications, or the duration of surgery for Schatzker type VI TPFs. However, fractures of the proximal fibula significantly increase the hospital stay, reduce knee function, and cause lateral knee pain and lateral hamstring tightness. Combined proximal fibular fracture is more decisive than PJF involvement for prognosis.

ID: 202084 An Atypical Presentation of Infrapatellar Saphenous Neuralgia: A Case Report

Persistent anteromedial knee pain due to injury to the infrapatellar branch of the saphenous nerve is not uncommon after knee surgeries and trauma. However, it is unusual for a patient to develop lateral knee pain and numbness from infrapatellar saphenous neuralgia as the saphenous nerve’s sensory distribution is more medial. We discuss a case where a 28-year-old man presented with three months of burning left lateral knee pain and numbness after an unknown mechanism of injury to his knee while playing basketball. Prior to presentation, the patient completed physical therapy and underwent a pes anserine bursa injection with minimal relief of pain. On exam, palpation of a small, localized area of tenderness over the anteromedial left knee elicited lateral infrapatellar knee pain. The patient had full strength and intact sensation to light touch except for a small area of numbness at the lateral infrapatellar left leg.

Operative Treatment of Acute Traumatic Dislocation of the Proximal Tibiofibular Joint with TightRope Fixation and Primary LCL Repair Following Tibial Intramedullary Nailing

Introduction/Objective Proximal tibiofibular joint (PTFJ) dislocation is a rare acute injury of the knee that is often misdiagnosed or overlooked. The diagnosis should be considered as part of the differential in any patient presenting with acute-onset lateral knee pain after an aggressive torsion trauma to a flexed knee. This case report detailing surgical fixation of a PTFJ dislocation is unique in that surgical lateral collateral ligament (LCL) repair was necessary and performed, and PTFJ fixation occurred following recent open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) of the tibia. This paper details specific technique and orientation of fixation to best return the PTFJ to anatomic alignment, as failure to do so can lead to instances of chronic morbidity. Case Report This case report describes surgical fixation of a traumatic posteromedial (Type III) PTFJ dislocation. During ORIF of the ipsilateral tibia, significant PTFJ laxity and displacement was noted intraoperatively. This necessitated a return to the operating room for definitive PTFJ surgical fixation with two TightRope syndesmotic suture button fixation devices with simultaneous intraoperative LCL repair with #2 Fiberwire. Discussion/Conclusions While few case reports have documented the use of TightRope syndesmotic fixation of the PTFJ, these authors present a novel method of orienting the fixation from the posterolateral fibula to the anteromedial tibia with simultaneous caudal to cranial direction in order to create orthogonal fixation of the PTFJ. This creates an orientation of fixation perpendicular to the anatomic alignment of the native PTFJ.We believe that this orientation of syndesmotic PTFJ fixation most physiologically replicates that of the native PTFJ, and will lead to effective surgical results and improved patient outcomes. We also believe that publications on this topic will help bring awareness to an underrecognized and underdiagnosed joint pathology, with the hopes that future patients will benefit and receive more thorough and efficient care.

Intrinsic risk factors associated with iliotibial band syndrome: A systematic review

Objectiveː Iliotibial band syndrome (ITBS) is the second most common running injury and the leading cause of lateral knee pain. Despite the numerous investigations on the subject, the intrinsic risk factors that may be involved in the syndrome have still not been highlighted and no consensus has been established in the literature. The objective of this systematic review is to investigate intrinsic risk factors associated with iliotibial band syndrome in order to provide an algorithm for future research and clinical guidance. Material and Methods: A systematic review of the literature was carried out according to the PRISMA guidelines, in the PubMed and ScienceDirect databases in order to identify studies investigating different parameters on patients with the syndrome since 2015; the date of the last systematic review on the subject. Resultsː Ten studies met the inclusion criteria of this review: cohort (n=1), cross-sectional study (n=8), case-control study (n=1). The results show that subjects with iliotibial band syndrome show atypical frontal plane kinematics in the hip and knee joint, a more prominent lateral femoral epicondyle, thickening of the iliotibial band, femoropatellar abnormalities and less resistance to fatigue of the gluteus medius muscle. Conclusionː This review offers opportunities in the management of ITBS. Some morphological, neuromuscular, muscle strength and biomechanical factors have been identified specific to ITBS patients. However, this work has several limitations; a small number of included studies, a lack of high-level studies, and methodological biases. Further studies, including randomized controlled trials and prospective studies are needed to reveal strong relationships between intrinsic risk factors and the onset of the syndrome.

Calcific Ligamentitis of the Lateral Collateral Ligament: A Rare Case of Lateral Knee Pain and Review of the Literature

Calcific Ligamentitis of the Lateral Collateral Ligament: A Rare Case of Lateral Knee Pain and Review of the Literature

Increased signal of the fibular collateral ligament of the knee on MRI, clinically significant?

IntroductionThe purpose of this study was to determine the clinical significance of signal hyperintensity in the proximal fibular collateral ligament (FCL) on coronal proton density (PD) fat-saturated (FS) MRI of the knee, a common finding. This study is unique in that it characterizes the FCL of a comprehensive, large cohort of both symptomatic and asymptomatic patients, which to our knowledge represents the first study with such broad inclusion criteria. MethodsA large case series was performed analyzing MRI of the knee of 250 patients from July 2021 through September 2021 and retrospectively reviewed. All studies were performed on 3-Tesla MRI scanners with a dedicated knee coil and in accordance with standard institutional knee MRI protocol. Signal in the proximal fibular collateral ligament was assessed on coronal PDFS and axial T2-weighted FS images. Increased signal was classified as none, mild, moderate, or severe. A corresponding chart review of clinic notes was performed to determine the presence or absence of lateral knee pain. An FCL sprain or injury was considered present if the medical record described tenderness on palpation of the lateral knee, positive finding against resistance to the leg (varus stress test) or reverse pivot shift, or any clinical suspicion for lateral complex sprain or posterolateral corner injury. ResultsThe majority (74%) of knee MRIs demonstrated the presence of increased signal in the proximal fibular collateral ligament on coronal PD FS images. <5% of these patients had associated clinical findings of fibular collateral ligament and/or lateral supporting structure injury. DiscussionAlthough increased signal in the proximal FCL of the knee is a common finding on coronal PDFS images, the majority are not associated with clinical symptoms. Thus, this increased signal is likely not a pathological finding in the absence of clinical findings of fibular collateral ligament sprain/injury. Our study emphasizes the importance of clinical correlation in identifying increased signal in the proximal FCL as pathologic.

A Young Skier with Leg Pain

BackgroundProximal tibiofibular joint (PTFJ) dislocation is a rare injury that can disrupt the proximal tibia-fibula joint. The abnormalities in knee x-ray imaging can be subtle and difficult to detect, requiring careful assessment. This rare cause of lateral knee pain requires a high level of suspicion for diagnosis. Treatment is closed reduction; unstable PTFJ dislocations often require surgical intervention. Case ReportA 17-year-old young man presented to the emergency department (ED) with right lateral knee pain and difficulty walking after colliding with another skier 2 days prior. The examination showed right lateral ecchymosis and tenderness over the lateral proximal fibula. He remained neurovascularly intact with a full passive and active range of motion. X-ray studies were obtained. The patient was referred by his outpatient orthopedic surgeon after the initial knee x-ray study was concerning for PTFJ dislocation and unsuccessful reduction. In the ED, the patient underwent moderate sedation and successful orthopedic-guided reduction via medial force on the lateral fibular head, while hyper-flexing the knee and holding the foot dorsiflexed and everted. Post-reduction radiographs showed improved proximal tibiofibular alignment without fracture. Why Should an Emergency Physician Be Aware of This?PTFJ dislocation is a rare injury that can be missed easily and requires a high level of suspicion when presented with an acute traumatic knee pain. Closed reduction of PTFJ dislocation can be achieved in the ED and early identification can prevent long-term sequelae.

Proximal Tibiofibular Joint Instability: An Underrecognized Cause of Lateral Knee Pain and Mechanical Symptoms.

Instability of the proximal tibiofibular joint is an uncommon and often unrecognized cause of lateral knee pain, mechanical symptoms, and instability. The condition results from one of three etiologies: acute traumatic dislocation, chronic or recurrent dislocations, and atraumatic subluxations. Generalized ligamentous laxity is a key predisposing factor for atraumatic subluxation. Instability of this joint may be in the anterolateral, posteromedial, or superior directions. Anterolateral instability is the most common type (80% to 85%) frequently occurring with hyperflexion of the knee with the ankle plantarflexed and inverted. Patients with chronic instability report lateral knee pain with snapping or catching often leading to a misdiagnosis of lateral meniscal pathology. Subluxations may be treated conservatively with activity modification, supportive straps, and knee-strengthening physical therapy. Chronic pain or instability is an indication for surgical treatment including arthrodesis, fibular head resection, or soft-tissue ligamentous reconstruction. Newly developed implants and soft-tissue graft reconstruction techniques provide secure fixation and stability with less invasive procedures and without the need for arthrodesis.

Research progress of lower limb muscle strength training in the treatment of lliotibial band syndrome

Iliotibial band syndrome (ITBS), as an overused injury of the lower extremities, has developed into a common cause of lateral knee pain. At present, the treatment of ITBS includes drug therapy, muscle strength training, physical therapy, and surgical treatment. Among these methods, physical therapy, drug therapy, and surgical treatment can only alleviate the symptoms of patients. As a safe and effective treatment, lower limb muscle strength training can improve patients' muscle strength, correct abnormal gait, and reduce the recurrence rate of the disease by paying attention to the dynamic changes of patients' recovery process. At present, the pathogenesis of ITBS remains unclear, and the treatment methods are not unified. It is necessary to further study the biomechanical factors related to the lower extremities and develop more scientific and comprehensive muscle strength training methods.

Development of diagnosis and treatment in the iliotibial band syndrome

Introduction and objective: The iliotibial band (ITB) is a complex structure located in the lateral part of the thigh and consists of longitudinally arranged fascial connective tissue. The aim of this study is to analyze the current literature regarding etiology, epidemiology, diagnosis, and conservative treatment of iliotibial band syndrome (ITBS). Materials and methods: PubMed database were searched. The criteria for qualifying the article for the review were the following keywords: running, iliotibial band syndrome, knee injuries, conservative treatment, physical therapy modalities. 11 articles from 2017 to 2022 were analyzed. The searches included systematic reviews, meta-analyses, randomized controlled trials, and review articles. Description of the state of knowledge: Iliotibial band syndrome is the most common cause of lateral knee pain in runners and cyclists. It is presumably caused by excessive tension in the iliotibial band. Excessive tension is the result of overuse disorder of the lateral knee. Key symptom of ITBS is sharp or burning pain in the region of the lateral femoral epicondyle.. Pain typically occurs during physical activity, after a reproducible time or distance of running. The diagnosis is achieved through taking clinical history and physical assessment. Summary: Treatment of ITBS is based on therapeutic exercise, manual therapy, neuromuscular re-education, modalities and anti-inflammatory medications. Eliminating modifiable risk factors helps prevent ITBS from recurring.

A Rare Case: Ganglion Cysts in the Proximal Tibiofibular Joint Causes Lateral Side Knee Pain: A Case Report

Introduction: Proximal tibiofibular joint (PTFJ) ganglion cysts are very rare. The pathophysiology remains unclear. Lateral knee pain was present in dominant case, and some cases accompanied with common peroneal nerve symptoms. In cases of chronic trauma, it is sometimes confused with proximal tibiofibular joint instability. Thorough examination and investigations such as MRI are highly recommended. There is no consensus of management, but some studies indication that excision of the ganglion associated with low recurrences number. Method: We report a case of 28 yeara-old woman, with a chief complain of pain on the lateral side of her right knee. Pain increasing on one last year. She had a trauma on her knee in 5 years ago. She was diagnosis with Lateral Instability of her knee by a previous surgeon and refer to our clinic for second opinion. In physical exam we found, tenderness around fibula head, Lachman, McMurray, Lelli’s test was negative. Shuck test was not evident.. MRI was done and showing partial tear of anterior horn of lateral meniscus and partial tear of anterior proximal tibia fibula ligament also a fluid collection around the fibular head. We planned to repair the meniscus through arthroscopic and stabilize the Proximal tibiofibular joint with open surgery. Results: Standard arthroscopic surgery was performed. Tear anterior horn meniscus was repair using inside out technique. In open surgery we found the anterior proximal tibiofibular ligament quite stable, and also we found a ganglion cyst around the PTFJ. We decided to leave the anterior PTFJ ligament, and excise the ganglion until its sac and follow up the case forward. Conclusion: Symptoms of pain caused by ganglion cysts in PTFJ, although rarely, can be very disturbing. The history of chronic trauma obscures this case with instability condition. There for careful diagnosis is required. Excision of the ganglion into the sac is the treatment of choice because of the very low recurrence rate. The complex anatomical composition of the lateral side of the knee can cause pain to arise from various components. The presence of PTFJ ganglion cysts should not be ignored