MCL Surgery

What is MCL Surgery?

The MCL is also known as the medial collateral ligament. This ligament is located right on the inside portion of your knee. It is outside of the joint and helps to hold bones together while providing strength and stability. When an injury occurs to the MCL this can be because of a tear or stretch in the MCL. Usually this occurs from something directly hitting the MCL. Athletes often experience this type of injury because of the impact their bodies experience on a regular basis. There are instances of minor MCL injuries that can heal with time and therapy. There are other times when the MCL must be surgically repaired in order to function properly again.

The Diagnosis

Depending on the severity of the injury, an MCL issue can often be diagnosed by a physical examination. A doctor will bend the knee and put pressure on the outside of the area to feel if the inner knee area is loose. If the area doesn’t feel as tight as it should be, then there is an MCL injury present. If the presence of an injury isn’t immediately diagnosed, then there may be the need for further testing. This can include an X-ray or an MRI. An X-ray is used to view the bones in the knee. Essentially, this process is used to rule out other issues with the knee area. An MRI will provide images of the knee and the ligaments inside.

The Treatment

The severity of the MCL injury will determine what the treatment options will be. A minor injury will require rest for a few weeks. The MCL can heal itself in this scenario. Something more severe could require physical therapy. A professional will have a patient go through a series of exercises and stretches a few times per week. These activities will help heal and strengthen the MCL back to its original condition. It is a rare occurrence, but sometimes an MCL injury will require a person to need surgery. If the ligament is torn away from the bone to a degree that it can’t heal on its own, then a medical professional can assist. This type of surgery usually is done as an arthroscopy procedure.

About the Recovery Process

Immediately following the injury diagnosis there will be a period of rest. This is when the affected leg will be elevated and kept still as much as possible. A doctor may recommend that heat or ice be applied periodically. Anti-inflammatory medications can help relieve pain and bring down any swelling that is present. After the first couple of weeks it will be determined if surgery is going to be needed. After the initial healing process is done, then it is time to begin rehabilitation. The more rehabilitation you can do each week the faster your recovery will be overall. It is important to listen to your body and rest when you start to feel any pain or discomfort in your knee area.

Why Choose Treasure Valley Hospital for This Surgery?

Treasure Valley Hospital physicians can quickly diagnose an MCL injury and get you the care that you need as soon as possible. If you are in need of surgery, then you have the best surgeons in the area available to you. Contact one of our highly experienced orthopedists today to find out more.