Knee ligament injuries can occur during sports, falls, vehicle accidents, or other activities that force the knee beyond its normal range of motion. Depending on the ligament involved and the severity of the injury, symptoms may include pain, swelling, instability, and difficulty returning to normal activities.
Dr. Brian Cohen is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with more than 20 years of experience, over 30,000 orthopedic surgical procedures performed, and more than 100,000 patient evaluations. He provides both nonsurgical and surgical treatment for ACL, PCL, MCL, and LCL injuries, tailored to each patient’s symptoms, activity level, and treatment goals.
Knee Ligaments
Four main ligaments within the knee help connect and stabilize the bones of the joint. These are the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), medial collateral ligament (MCL), and lateral collateral ligament (LCL).
The collateral ligaments are located along the sides of the knee. They help control side-to-side motion and protect the joint from unusual movement. The cruciate ligaments are located inside the knee and help control forward-and-backward motion and rotation.
The Knee Ligaments in Detail
Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL)
The anterior cruciate ligament runs diagonally through the center of the knee. It helps control rotation and prevents the tibia from moving too far forward in relation to the femur. The ACL is one of the most commonly injured knee ligaments.
ACL injuries may occur alone or in combination with damage to the meniscus, articular cartilage, or other ligaments.
Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL)
The posterior cruciate ligament is located toward the back of the knee. It helps prevent the tibia from moving too far backward in relation to the femur. PCL injuries are less common than ACL injuries and are often caused by a forceful impact to the front of a bent knee.
Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL)
The medial collateral ligament is located on the inner side of the knee and connects the femur to the tibia. It provides stability against forces that push the knee inward.
MCL injuries may occur alone or along with other injuries, including an ACL tear.
Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL)
The lateral collateral ligament is located on the outer side of the knee and connects the femur to the fibula. It helps stabilize the outer portion of the knee.
LCL injuries are less common than MCL or ACL injuries and may occur with damage to other structures on the outer and back portions of the knee.
ACL Reconstruction
ACL Primary Repair Using the TightRope® RT Implant With InternalBrace™ Ligament Augmentation
Knee Ligament Injury Treatment
Knee ligament injuries are commonly classified as sprains. A mild sprain may involve stretching of the ligament, while a more severe injury may involve a partial or complete tear.
Not every ligament injury requires surgery. Treatment may include activity modification, bracing, medication, physical therapy, and progressive strengthening. Surgery may be considered when the knee remains unstable, multiple structures are injured, or the patient wishes to return to activities that require cutting, pivoting, or rapid changes in direction.
Dr. Cohen considers the ligament involved, severity of the tear, knee stability, associated injuries, activity level, and time since the injury when recommending treatment.
Ligament Reconstruction
Ligament reconstruction replaces the damaged ligament with a tissue graft. The graft may come from another part of the patient’s body, known as an autograft, or from carefully screened donor tissue, known as an allograft.
Many ligament reconstruction procedures use arthroscopic techniques and small incisions. The specific approach depends on the ligament involved, the condition of the knee, and whether other structures also require treatment.
Ligament Repair
Ligament repair may be considered when the torn tissue remains healthy and the location and pattern of the injury allow it to be reattached. During the procedure, Dr. Cohen may use sutures, anchors, or other fixation devices to secure the ligament.
Repair is less common than reconstruction and is not appropriate for every ligament tear. Dr. Cohen determines whether repair or reconstruction offers the better option based on the injury and the patient’s needs.
Why Choose Dr. Cohen?
OVER 25+ YEARS OF EXPERIENCE
One of the first orthopedic surgeons employed by a large hospital. Dr. Cohen spent 20 years.
TRUSTED BY OVER 100,000+ PATIENTS WORLDWIDE
Over his distinguished career, Dr. Cohen has cultivated a reputation of excellence and trust among his patients and his peers.
UTILIZING THE LATEST TECHNOLOGY
To achieve the best surgical outcomes, Dr. Cohen uses the most advanced technologies and techniques, keeping his practice state-of-the-art.
PATIENT SAFETY IS TOP PRIORITY
An individualized, patient-focused process coupled with decades of training and experience helps ensure maximum safety for all of Dr. Cohen’s patients.
Knee Ligament Injury Care in Chillicothe, OH
Knee ligament injuries can range from mild sprains to complete tears that cause ongoing instability. Dr. Cohen evaluates the injured ligament, knee stability, associated damage, and activity goals before recommending nonsurgical care, ligament repair, or reconstruction. Treatment is personalized to help each patient safely regain strength, stability, and function. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Brian Cohen, call ((614) 788-0375.
