There are four main ligaments about the knee that help to stabilize the joint and provide the function required for running, walking, turning, pivoting, sports, athletics, and almost anything activity related. These four ligaments are the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), the medial collateral ligament (MCL), and the lateral collateral ligament (LCL). In addition to these four major ligaments, there are also a number of smaller ligaments, as well as tendons, muscles, menisci and articular cartilage that together work in harmony to create healthy, pain-free motion of the knee.
Most knee ligament injuries occur in isolation and will involve just one ligament. However, in cases where extreme trauma occurs such as a direct blow to the knee, or a fall from a height, or motor vehicle accident, several knee ligaments can be injured or torn at the same time. This is known as a combined ligament injury, or a multi-ligament injury.
These specific types of injuries require specialized treatment and attention from a skilled surgeon. Dr. Lubowitz is an expert in performing combined ligament surgeries and provides patients with optimal care so that they can best return to their normal activities following these serious injuries.