Rupture of the cruciate ligament of the knee: symptoms and treatment

Content

  • 1Rupture of the cruciate ligament: symptoms and treatment
    • 1.1Causes of the gap
    • 1.2Degrees of injury
    • 1.3Symptoms and pains
    • 1.4Diagnostic measures
    • 1.5Healing measures
  • 2Rupture of ligaments of the knee joint: treatment
    • 2.1Classification of ligament ruptures of the knee joint
    • 2.2Causes - trauma
    • 2.3Symptoms - severe pain
    • 2.4Emergency care - medical
    • 2.5Diagnostics - X-ray, CT, MRI
    • 2.6Treatment conservative or surgical
    • 2.7In case of damage to the lateral ligaments
    • 2.8If the anterior cruciate ligament is damaged
    • 2.9If the posterior cruciate ligament is damaged
    • 2.10To which doctor to apply
  • 3Rupture of cruciate ligaments of the knee joint
    • 3.1Symptoms of ruptured knee ligaments
    • 3.2First aid for rupture of knee ligaments
    • 3.3Diagnosis of knee ligament rupture
    • 3.4Methods of treatment of ruptures of cruciate ligaments of the knee joint
    • 3.5Surgical treatment of cruciate ligaments of the knee joint
    • 3.6Rehabilitation period after surgery
    • 3.7Prognosis after rupture of knee ligaments
  • instagram viewer
  • 4Rupture of the cruciate ligament of the knee: causes, first aid, treatment
    • 4.1Degrees of damage
    • 4.2Conducting a medical examination
    • 4.3Symptoms of an ignored knee injury
    • 4.4Rupture of the cruciate ligament in front of the knee
    • 4.5Injury of the cruciate posterior ligament
    • 4.6Recognition of rupture of posterior ligament
    • 4.7Conservative treatment of back muscle rupture
    • 4.8Operative intervention with rupture of posterior ligament
    • 4.9Treatment of ruptures of cruciate ligaments of the posterior and anterior position
    • 4.10First actions in case of trauma
    • 4.11Quick help with a knee injury
    • 4.12Treatment of a knee cap
    • 4.13Application of medical gymnastics

Rupture of the cruciate ligament: symptoms and treatment

The rupture of the cruciate ligament is a pathological condition that develops as a result of traumatization of the knee joint.

This PKS injury is one of the most dangerous, but if it is detected in a timely manner, it provides assistance and complete treatment, it will not bear any consequences for the person. He will be able to continue a normal life.

Most often the rupture of the cruciate ligament of the knee occurs in people who are actively involved in sports, especially tennis, basketball and football.

The cruciate ligament is a strong anatomical entity that is responsible for a full functioning of the knee joint, and also controls the movement of the articular joint in a strictly designated range.

If the amplitude of motion is increased for some reason, it is possible to stretch or even rupture the ligament apparatus. In the knee there are two ligaments - anterior and posterior. They got their name because if you look at the knee from the front, they form a cross. Under the influence of adverse factors, there may be a rupture of the posterior cruciate ligament and anterior.

The structure of the knee joint

Symptoms of rupture are usually very pronounced - the knee swells and an intense pain syndrome appears, the body temperature increases locally. In addition, at the moment of rupture, a person can hear the sound of cod.

Precisely to establish that there was a breakdown, only a traumatologist will be able to after examining and prescribing certain methods of laboratory-instrumental diagnostics. Treat the rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament of the knee or the back recommended in a stationary setting.

Physicians use both non-invasive therapy and operative intervention.

Causes of the gap

More often in medical practice, a rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament of the knee joint is revealed. And usually this is due to injuries. A little less likely to contribute to this may be inflammation in the articular articulation. The rupture of the posterior cruciate ligament is much less common.

The causes of this pathological condition:

  • the fall of a man from a height;
  • sharp movements in the knee joint. The rupture can occur with intense jumps, a sharp stop after running, a sharp extension, and so on;
  • stumbling;
  • Knock in the knee area, falling on its front or back. Worst of all, if there is a direct blow. Because of it, a complete rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament can occur;
  • accident on the road;
  • the flow in the knee articulation of degenerative or inflammatory processes, which also affect the ligamentous apparatus.

Predisposing factors to stretching or rupturing the ligamentous apparatus:

  1. inadequate development of the muscles on the lower limbs;
  2. some features of the human skeleton;
  3. hormonal background of a person. Clinicians note that such a trauma is more often diagnosed in women.

Degrees of injury

Based on how much the ligamentous apparatus was damaged in the knee joint, three degrees of rupture are distinguished. Each of them has its own symptoms, and, depending on the degree, the tactics of treatment are selected:

Degrees of rupture of the cruciate ligament

  • microbreak. In this case, there is a violation of the integrity of the ligament only at a particular site. Symptoms are not too pronounced, the general condition of the patient does not suffer. This stage is treated without surgery. No complications with proper treatment are observed;
  • partial rupture. Also in the medical literature it is called the subtotal rupture. In this case, about 50% of the fibers are damaged. Symptoms are more pronounced, the functioning of the knee joint is disrupted. Treatment of the rupture is only complex. If such a trauma has occurred in the athlete, then for complete recovery, it will be necessary to conduct surgical intervention;
  • ruptureanterior cruciate ligament. The ligament is broken completely and the knee joint can not function fully. A complete rupture of the ligament of the knee joint treatment involves only operative.

Symptoms and pains

The intensity of the symptoms of the anterior cruciate ligament rupture depends directly on how much the integrity of the anatomical formation will be violated. Most often, it is possible to suspect the presence of this pathological condition in humans according to the following signs:

  1. during the injury, a person hears and feels a crunch in the knee joint;
  2. locally increases body temperature;
  3. at the time of injury, there is a strong pain syndrome, which increases as the person tries to move the leg (if the ligament is broken completely, the limb ceases to perform its basic function);
  4. the knee joint swells;
  5. the extremity is unstable;
  6. hyperemia of the skin at the site of injury. There may be bruises and hemorrhages;
  7. the manifestation of hemarthrosis is not excluded. This is a pathological condition that is characterized by the accumulation of blood in the joint.

In case of appearance of such signs, it is important to give him first aid before the patient is delivered to the medical institution. The first thing to do is to completely immobilize the foot, so as not to injure it even more.

The injured knee is fixed with an elastic bandage or with an ordinary tight cloth. Necessarily, the cold is applied to the affected area and the patient is given an analgesic pill to reduce the manifestation of the pain syndrome.

Diagnostic measures

The presence of a rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament can be detected only by a qualified doctor, a traumatologist, after conducting a patient interview and a thorough questioning. To assess the severity of the gap, some instrumental examinations are appointed, in particular the following:

  • X-ray of the affected limb;
  • ultrasound examination of articular articulation;
  • MRI is the most informative technique, allowing to reveal the presence and extent of the rupture.

Healing measures

Many people assume that the gap can be eliminated only through an operative intervention. But actually it is not. For the therapy of this condition, both conservative methods and surgical intervention are used.

Conservative treatment is used in the treatment of rupture in children, as well as in the elderly.

In addition, non-invasive methods treat a partial rupture, which minimally affected the functioning of the articulation.

The injured leg is fixed and provides it with maximum peace. If there is an urgent need, the doctor can even galvanize it. Some medicines are prescribed:

  1. anti-inflammatory;
  2. painkillers;
  3. restorative;
  4. Haemostatic.

The second stage is the restoration of the functioning of the affected joint. To this end, the patient is prescribed massage, physiotherapy, exercise therapy, wearing special orthopedic devices.

Surgical intervention is indicated if conservative therapy is ineffective or if there is a complete rupture of the ligamentous apparatus.

It is important to know that suturing is not able to restore the integrity of the ligament.

Therefore, in order to normalize a person's condition, special knee prostheses or transplants are implanted in the knee.

A source: http://SimptoMer.ru/bolezni/sustavy-kosti/2119-razryv-krestoobraznoy-svyazki-simptomy

Rupture of ligaments of the knee joint: treatment

Torn ligament of the knee joint are frequent injuries. They may be complete or incomplete and accompanied by a complete separation from the attachment point.

These factors largely determine the severity of the symptoms.

Such injuries can occur during road traffic accidents, at home, while playing sports and other circumstances.

In this article, we will acquaint you with the varieties, causes, symptoms and ways of treating lacerations of the ligaments of the knee joint. With this information, you will be able to provide first aid to yourself or someone close and make a decision about the need to see a doctor.

Knee joint ligaments act as a fixator of the tibia to the femoral bone. As a result, a breach of the elasticity and the exact location of the joint structures occurs and the movements in it become chaotic.

Classification of ligament ruptures of the knee joint

Depending on the location of the injury, these types of rifts are distinguished:

  • anterior cruciate ligament;
  • posterior cruciate ligament;
  • external lateral ligaments;
  • internal lateral ligaments.

Depending on the volume of damage to the fibers, three degrees of severity of damage are identified:

  1. I - only a few fibers are damaged in the bundle, and the rest remain intact;
  2. II - in the ligament, more than 50% of the fibers are damaged and the mobility of the joint is limited;
  3. III - the ligament is completely ruptured or torn from the place of fixation, and the joint becomes immobilized and unstable.
You will be interested in:Diseases of the joints of the lower extremities: symptoms and treatment of arthrosis and arthritis

Causes - trauma

The cause of ligament rupture is trauma. The rupture of one or another ligament of the knee joint is provoked by a certain type of movement that was committed with unacceptable force or incorrectly:

  • the rupture of the anterior cruciate ligaments is caused by the bent shank and the application of force to the posterior surface of the knee joint;
  • the rupture of the posterior cruciate ligaments is caused by direct shock on the lower leg with a bent leg or sharp extension of the knee joint;
  • the rupture of the outer lateral ligaments occurs if a person stumbles abruptly on an uneven surface or is caused by a foot turn when walking on high heels;
  • the rupture of the inner lateral ligaments is caused by the same circumstances as the rupture of the external ligaments, but there is a deviation of the tibia to the outside.

In severe injuries, several ligaments may be severed. In such cases, intraarticular hemorrhage occurs and the patient needs longer treatment and rehabilitation.

Symptoms - severe pain

The main symptoms of rupture of ligaments:

  1. feeling of cracking with trauma;
  2. sharp pain in the knee;
  3. the appearance of edema;
  4. limitation or total absence and lack of control of movements;
  5. impossibility of transferring body weight to a damaged leg;
  6. balloting (pathological mobility) of the patella.

The ruptures of the cruciate ligament are accompanied by more pronounced symptoms: intense pain, restriction of mobility, discomfort and, in some cases, the accumulation of blood in the joint cavity (hemarthrosis). If the lateral ligaments are damaged, the clinical picture is less pronounced, but also manifests itself with pain, swelling and movement disorders.

Symptoms of rupture of ligaments of the knee joint can not be resolved without proper treatment. Subsequently, in such patients in the joint may appear fibrous deposits, which will throughout their life give to know about themselves uncomfortable sensations.

Emergency care - medical

If suspicion of ligament rupture is necessary to immediately take a number of actions:

  1. Provide immobility of the damaged joint with the help of improvised means, pressing bandage, elastic bandage or special bandage. The victim should move as little as possible.
  2. Apply cold to the damaged joint (through the tissue) to reduce hemorrhage and swelling.
  3. If possible, create an elevated position for the injured leg.
  4. With severe pain, take an analgesic.
  5. Deliver the patient to the doctor.

Diagnostics - X-ray, CT, MRI

After examining the patient to confirm the diagnosis of "rupture of ligaments of the knee joint the doctor may prescribe such additional methods of examination:

  • X-ray;
  • CT;
  • MRI;
  • Ultrasound.

These techniques allow you to accurately determine the degree of damage to the ligaments and identify possible concomitant damage to the joint (dislocations, fractures, etc.). Based on the findings, the doctor can make a plan for further treatment of the patient.

Treatment conservative or surgical

The tactics of treating the ligament rupture of the knee joint depends on the degree of their damage. For this, conservative or surgical techniques may be used.

In most cases, the treatment of rupture of ligaments of the knee joint consists of the following measures:

  • restriction of movements;
  • local application of cold in the early days;
  • elastic bandaging or use of a special bandage;
  • lifting of the affected leg above the body;
  • reception of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for the removal of pain and signs of inflammation (Dicloberl, Indomethacin, Xefokam, Movalis, Aertal, etc.);
  • physiotherapeutic procedures;
  • warming ointments and compresses with medicines (a few days after the injury);
  • physiotherapy;
  • massage.

With a complete rupture of the ligament or ineffectiveness of the above methods of conservative therapy, the patient may be recommended to perform a surgical operation.

In most cases, these are minimally invasive interventions performed through two small incisions using special endoscopic equipment (arthroscopy).

Sometimes there is a need to replace the ruptured ligaments in transplanted or synthetic tendons.

In case of damage to the lateral ligaments

Conservative therapy

Such methods of treatment are applied at ruptures of I-II degree. To eliminate signs of inflammation, swelling and pain, physiotherapeutic procedures and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, compresses with medicines, ointments and massage.

The recovery period of the lost ligament functions is -2 months. The length of rehabilitation largely depends on the patient's age, the regularity of the prescribed procedures and the individual characteristics of the body tissues.

Surgery

The operation is usually appointed with tears of grade III and with complete tearing of the ligament from the tibia. The tactics of surgical treatment depend on the limitation period of the damage.

When performing the intervention for 3 weeks after the rupture, ligament can be sewn.

In a number of cases, the affected ligaments decay considerably into fibers, and to consolidate them, a method of strengthening it using a fascia or a tendon from a nearby muscle is used.

In such cases, the duration of treatment and rehabilitation is increased and there is a risk of infection into the joint.

If the operation is performed after 3 weeks or more, the ends of the ruptured lateral ligament can no longer be approximated for stitching.

During this time, they shrink and significantly distance from each other.

In such cases, surgeons use the technique of their endoprosthetics using various synthetic materials or lavsan tape.

If the anterior cruciate ligament is damaged

Conservative therapy

Such methods of treatment are applied at ruptures of I-II degree and at complete rupture of a ligament in elderly patients.

To eliminate pain and signs of inflammation, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and physiotherapy are used (for maximum effectiveness, they should be continuous).

After a few days, ointment compresses (Voltaren, Lyoton, etc.) are recommended, exercise therapy with a gradual increase in loads and massage.

The recovery period of the lost ligament functions is -2 months. The length of rehabilitation largely depends on the regularity of the procedures, the age of the patient and the individual characteristics of the body tissues.

Surgery

The procedure for the rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament is prescribed in the first 7 days or 6 weeks after the injury. Such terms are explained by the fact that with such damage a week later a lot of blood accumulates in the joint and a hematoma forms that interferes with the intervention process.

To perform such surgical operations, a new ligament graft is used, and titanium screws are used to fix it.

Different sources can be used for sampling the transplant. Usually for this purpose the tissue is taken from the patellar ligament.

In a number of cases, the tendons of the posterior group of hip or quadriceps muscles are used for the implant.

Surgical intervention is usually performed by arthroscopic method, and for anesthesia, spinal anesthesia is used. After performing punctures and introducing endoscopic equipment, the joint is cleaned.

This procedure is necessary, since trauma is accompanied by a bundle of ligaments and often meniscus lesions are present (their damaged parts are removed after trimming).

A damaged bunch and interfering stratified fibers are "plucked" and removed from the joint.

After this preparatory stage, a new ligament is transplanted from its own tissues, combined (from its tendon / ligament and lavsan) or completely synthetic material. The choice of a transplant is determined by the surgeon and depends on the age of the patient, his weight and the level of physical activity.

A new ligament is attached to the bones of the joint with the help of bolts made of titanium. On the one hand to the femoral, and on the other - to the tibia.

The duration of such a surgical operation is usually not more than, hours.

After this, the patient is 2-4 hours in the intensive care unit to eliminate the risk of possible complications of spinal anesthesia. The patient can be discharged from the hospital 3 days after the operation.

He is recommended to use crutches and an individual rehabilitation program, the duration of which can be from 4 to 6 months.

If the posterior cruciate ligament is damaged

Conservative therapy

In cases of rupture of this ligament, in almost all cases, conservative treatment is sufficient and surgical operation is not required. After injury, patients should follow generally accepted guidelines for the treatment of ligament ruptures.

With the regular implementation of such measures, recovery usually occurs after -2 months.

As with other types of knee ligament rupture, the duration of rehabilitation may depend on the patient's age, the regularity of the prescribed procedures and the individual features of the body tissues.

Surgery

Performing surgical intervention with rupture of the posterior cruciate ligament is usually necessary in cases where damage to the ligament is combined or multiple.

For example, with a dislocation of the joint and violation of the integrity of several ligaments. In addition, surgical operations are recommended to athletes who need the maximum restoration of joint functions.

Intervention is performed using an arthroscope and is minimally invasive.

It is not possible to sew the edges of a torn posterior cruciate ligament, and therefore it is replaced during the operation.

As a transplant, the patient's own ligaments or ligaments from a combined or synthetic material are used.

Tactics, the duration of such surgical interventions and rehabilitation after them are the same as for arthroscopic surgery for anterior cruciate ligament.

The success of the treatment and rehabilitation of the patient with tears in the knee joints largely depends on the timeliness of the referral to the doctor. In many cases, the recovery of the patient is possible with the help of conservative therapy.

If surgical treatment is necessary, the patient is ligated or replaced by a transplant. Almost all such interventions are minimally invasive and are performed with the help of an arthroscope.

You will be interested in:Exercises from stoop for the muscles of the back

The methods of these operations are constantly being improved and allow patients to recover in a shorter period of time.

To which doctor to apply

If there is a suspicion of ligament rupture in the knee joint, the patient should be given emergency care and taken to a trauma doctor. To clarify the diagnosis, the doctor will prescribe an X-ray or other examinations (MRI, CT, ultrasound).

A source: https://myfamilydoctor.ru/razryv-svyazok-kolennogo-sustava-lechenie/

Rupture of cruciate ligaments of the knee joint

Cross-shaped (cruciate) ligaments are located in the articular cavity of the knee.

The anterior cruciate ligament is attached from one side to the back of the thigh bone projection, passes through the articular cavity and joins on the other side to the front of the fovea large tibia. The anterior cruciate ligament fixes the joint, preventing a strong shift of the tibia anteriorly. The posterior cruciate ligament of the joint connects the lateral surface of the condyle with the posteromascular fovea tibia, and passing through the joint of the knee, fixing the joint and preventing the shin from moving in the direction "Back".

Damage to the anterior cruciate ligament occurs with the greatest frequency due to the forces exerted forward towards the back of the knee joint with the bent and directed inward tibia. More often the ruptures of cruciate ligaments result from rapid sudden movements in the joint of the knee.

The main causes of rupture of knee ligaments are:

• force on the thigh or drumstick • sudden braking;

• landing from a height to straightened legs;

Symptoms of ruptured knee ligaments

The ruptures of the cruciate ligaments of the knee joint are of three degrees:

first degree:In the tissue of the cruciate ligament there were micro-ruptures. This causes pain in the knee, mobility is limited and there is a slight puffiness.

second degree: the symptomatology is similar, as in the case of a small rupture, but if such a trauma took place at least once, most often it repeats. The consequence of this is a decrease in the elasticity of the tissues, wear of the ligaments.

Secondary trauma can occur with the usual turn of the foot.
third degree:the most dangerous, since it represents a complete rupture of the cruciate ligaments, this is accompanied by soreness and limited movements.

The joint becomes extremely unstable, the function of limb support is impaired.

Often there are "combined" gaps. The most dangerous injury is the rupture of two cruciate ligaments, two lateral ligaments and the most articular bag. As a result of this, extreme joint instability arises and to complete loss of support for the injured limb.

Symptoms of rupture of cruciate ligaments of the knee joint include: • painful sensations • swelling, • limited movement in the knee • symptom of "balloting" of the patella • instability, "looseness" the joint.

• symptom of the "drawer".

Often the symptoms of rupture of cruciate ligaments of the knee joint are similar to the symptoms of other knee injuries, such as bruising, meniscus damage, sprains, dislocations of the kneecap. Therefore, with these symptoms, it is important to consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.

First aid for rupture of knee ligaments

The first help in rupturing the cruciate ligaments of the knee joint is that the victim is given analgesic, rest is provided, ice is applied to the damaged joint, the knee is fixed and it rises.

The victim must be taken to a medical institution.

If there is no such possibility, in the first 24 hours after the injury, the victim must limit any movement of the injured leg to avoid further damage to the joint ligaments.

In the first twenty-four hours, cryotherapy should be used - apply ice or cold compresses to the damaged area. This helps reduce the hemorrhage in the tissue.

It is necessary to impose a tire, bandage or wrap the limb with an elastic bandage. With severe pain, the patient should take non-steroid pain medications. In no case, the place of damage can not be heated, it is forbidden to "tilt" the knee.

Diagnosis of knee ligament rupture

There are the following methods for diagnosing the rupture of cruciate ligaments of the knee joint:

• talk with the patient in order to find out the circumstances of the injury • reception of the "drawer".

In order to diagnose ruptures of cruciate ligaments, the doctor tries to shift the victim's shin anteriorly or backwards. In the case of rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament, the shin is strongly biased forward.

In the case of rupture of the posterior cruciate ligament, the shin is effortlessly displaced posteriorly.

If the rupture happened a long time ago, the symptom of the "drawer" becomes indistinct due to the development near the place of damage to the fatty subcutaneous tissue that stabilizes the knee. • arthroscopy - the joint is inspected from the inside with a probe • X-ray

• computed tomography and mrt (rarely used because of high cost)

X-ray: rupture of cruciate ligaments of the knee

Methods of treatment of ruptures of cruciate ligaments of the knee joint

Treatment begins with a puncture of the injured joint in order to eliminate blood fluid from the joint bag. The doctor leads the place of damage to novocaine.

Then, making sure that the motor functions of the joint are not violated, and the meniscus is not damaged, the limb, slightly bent at the knee, is mobilized with a plaster bandage for up to one month.

Stationary surveillance is not required. After the gypsum is removed, the doctor prescribes LPC, massage and physiotherapy procedures.

Immediately after the injury, surgery is not performed because of the risk of complications.

In the case of fracture of the bone fragment and its displacement, surgical operation is urgently performed.

Thus, conservative methods of treating knee ligament rupture include:

• anesthesia

• removal of edema

• mobilization

Surgical treatment of cruciate ligaments of the knee joint

Indications for a surgical operation on the cruciform ligaments is the "looseness" of the joint and the impossibility of painless movement with support to the damaged limb. The operation is performed 5-6 weeks after the injury.

Bunches do not stitch, because it does not lead to a positive sustainable result. A plastic restoration is performed using a part of the patella ligament.

In some cases, endoprosthetics of ligaments with artificial materials are performed.

For an optimal outcome of surgery to restore ligaments, you need to choose: a graft of suitable strength and rigidity, correctly locate and fix the transplant. As a transplant surgeon used:

• autografts from the patella ligament • hamstring grafts

• allografts (donor)

The service life of artificial ligaments is limited.

In the case of the appointment of surgical treatment, the patient is placed in a hospital, most often for a period of two weeks.

Rehabilitation period after surgery

The transplant of the cruciate ligament is most durable during the transplant process.

Consequently, the primary task of the surgeon is to ensure the speedy mobilization of the joint and prevent joint "weakness."

This goal is achieved through the optimal fixation of transplanted tissue.

It is necessary within a week to limit any physical effect on the knee, for this it is necessary to use crutches.

The load should be increased gradually, this should occur in conjunction with physiotherapy procedures.

For the first three to five days, the injured leg should always be in a raised position. Physiotherapy should be combined with regular lymphatic drainage.

Thanks to the clinical experience, it is known that a moderate load on the knee contributes to the best healing graft, as in this case the formation of new collagen fibers, providing elasticity and strength tissues.

Thus, to date, doctors prefer an active rehabilitation period, involving a special complex physical exercises that are specifically designed to restore the functioning of the knee joint after ruptions of cruciform ligaments.

Postoperative period involves gymnastics, which positively affects the strengthening of the transplant. It is recommended to practice:

• half-squatting with a slope of the body • a variety of gentle foot exercises

• moderate walking

Prognosis after rupture of knee ligaments

Term of loss of ability to work with a rupture of the cruciate ligaments is approximately 2 weeks. Patients engaged in manual labor can return to work 4-6 weeks later.

In the event of a peeing, six to eight weeks after surgery, the patient can begin to perform physical exercises such as swimming, walking, cycling etc.

Patients are strongly advised not to actively engage in sports for six months after the operation. Sports are recommended only after a year.

A source: http://www.medicalj.ru/diseases/emergencies/1136-razryv-kolennyh-svyazok

Rupture of the cruciate ligament of the knee: causes, first aid, treatment

Trauma that can occur anywhere and under different circumstances is the rupture of the cruciate ligament of the knee.

Most often, because of such damage to patients surgical rooms are people who lead a mobile life, and athletes.

Of all the tendons of the knee, the cruciform is most prone to rupture, since they belong to the most functional tendons and almost all movements are performed with their participation.

Degrees of damage

The rupture of the cruciate ligament of the knee is obtained by the impact or force directed to the rear of the knee, with the inside of the tibia turned in a bent position.

Trauma is sometimes accompanied by bone fractures at the junction with the tendons, which affects the procedure of treatment.

Severe lesions include the rupture of both cruciate ligaments in combination with two lateral tendons and articular capsule, the consequences are manifested in the appearance of a "loosened joint" and the inability to use the foot when walking. Classification of injuries of ligaments looks like this:

  • to the first degree include stretching the continuation of the tendon and microscopic trauma to the fibers, discomfort is pain, redness of the knee, some swelling, a slight restriction mobility;
  • to the second degree, numerous fiber ruptures, all the previously described symptoms manifest themselves to a more acute degree, the joint is partially moving;
  • the third degree is characterized by a complete rupture of the muscle, there is a sharp severe pain, there is an extensive hematoma, puffiness, it is impossible to rest on a painful leg, the joint is in a relaxed state.
You will be interested in:Heel spur: what kind of a doctor?

Conducting a medical examination

The traumatologist examines the injured limb, he decides whether surgery is necessary on the knee, depending on the severity of the lesion. The initial study consists in conducting a survey of the victim and palpation of the knee joint.

The second stage is radiodiagnosis, resulting in X-rays of lateral and direct projection.

In some cases, for better viewing of bones, computer tomography is used. Clear visualization of ligaments, muscles look at the magnetic resonance imaging.

After this, the consequences of trauma are determined with a high degree of accuracy.

The doctor conducts the Lachmann test, which consists in placing the patient on the back and covering the back of the thigh with the right palm.

With the left hand, the proximal shin portion is gradually pulled forward.

Conclusion on the degree of destruction of the cruciate muscles is done, based on the possibility of extending the joint forward and on how the swollen knee looks like.

Symptoms of an ignored knee injury

Sometimes patients who have suffered damage do not pay attention to changes in joint behavior when walking. If the degree of damage is light, the instability of the joint will eventually pass.

Ignoring the symptom leads to the development of arthritis of the joint even in middle and early age. After a short time, the patient consults a doctor with a strong swelling of the tissues adjacent to the knee.

The swollen knee is to be released from the joint fluid.

The rupture of the anterior ligament leads to the development of hemarthrosis, accompanied by the ingress of blood clots into the internal joint cavity. This consequence of inattention to health is characterized by severe pain, which does not allow the specialist to conduct a palpation examination.

Rupture of the cruciate ligament in front of the knee

The function of the tendon muscle is to protect the joint from flexion in the opposite direction.

The trauma is caused by the situation when the person firmly fixed the foot with the shin, but it is required to carry out a circular movement outward.

The impact is attributed to the indirect type, as well as the landing after an unsuccessful jump. Indirect action on the knee joint is the result of movement in the game sports.

The second type - direct impact - refers to those cases where the rupture of the cruciate ligament of the knee occurs when a destructive action is applied to the object or when it falls. Such sports as hockey and baseball are typical for obtaining such injuries.

The rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament of the knee is a serious injury and is treated by a specialist.

The use of conservative methods does not always lead to positive results, almost all patients experience edema and increased pain after the events.

Injury of the cruciate posterior ligament

This tendon muscle is behind the anterior cruciate ligament. Its damage is observed less often, since nature has well protected the bundle.

Causes of rupture of the posterior ligament is a strong impact in front of the knee or shin. Such impacts are encountered in case of accidents, road accidents, sports competitions.

If there is a suspicion of rupture of the posterior tendon, the working condition of the half-lateral angle (the posterior section of the joint) is checked.

In more than 50% of cases, a bone fracture and posterior rupture of the cruciate ligament of the knee are combined. Treatment is complicated by the restoration of two body systems.

Recognition of rupture of posterior ligament

A characteristic symptom is a small subluxation of the shin in the rear position, it is clearly visible on X-rays.

In this case, ultrasound does not show the severity of the problem.

The patient experiences pain in the knee, swelling of the tissues develops, the movement of the joint becomes unnatural when walking, a feeling of emptiness and instability in the knee.

Conservative treatment of back muscle rupture

Unlike the anterior cruciate tendon, the treatment of the posterior has a positive dynamics.

Restoration of the cruciate ligament of the knee requires fixed fixation of the quadriceps femoris muscle, which performs the function of leg movement.

If there is only a tear in the posterior ligament, the patient independently rehabilitates, doing a set of elementary exercises.

Restorative gymnastics is simple, but done constantly, the exercises are given by the doctor. It is prescribed treatment with anti-inflammatory drugs, painkillers, diuretics.

Operative intervention with rupture of posterior ligament

Surgical intervention is determined by implantation of a prosthesis from a synthetic material or by the introduction of grafts. Stitching of the ligament does not, as this procedure is futile.

The surgeon works with the injured knee only in case of simultaneous fracture or rupture of the accompanying nodes.

If partial tearing or stretching is observed, the treatment is carried out as rehabilitation after trauma.

Treatment of ruptures of cruciate ligaments of the posterior and anterior position

To remove blood clots from the inner region of the joint, blood sampling is done with an injection. Be sure of the remaining mobility after this procedure, exclude the break of the meniscus and impose a cast.

The leg in a fixed position is about a month, then go to therapeutic massage, physical education and physiotherapy methods, finally healing the rupture of the cruciate ligament of the knee. Rehabilitation takes about 3-4 months, the opportunity to work is being restored.

Operation on the knee is not done immediately after the injury, since there is a risk of complications in the joint.

They resort to urgent surgical intervention only in the event that the injury caused splitting and detachment of bone tissue.

Then this part is attached to the base bone and a plaster is applied.

First actions in case of trauma

The person is laid in a prone position. The injured leg is placed with pads so that the diseased joint is above the body level.

This situation creates an outflow of fluid and blood from the problem site.

Use any means to cool the knee, the ideal is to use an ice pack for two hours.

If there is a rupture of the cruciate ligament of the knee, timely assistance will prevent the occurrence of subsequent complications, will facilitate the treatment process.

It is very difficult for a non-specialist to diagnose before the doctor's visit, therefore, if there is an assumption that there is no rupture, and the patient is stretched, all precautions should be taken, both for discontinuity.

Quick help with a knee injury

If the patient has hurt her knee, what should she do? The first minutes after a bruise solve much in the further restoration of working capacity of a joint.

If the injury occurred on the street, cause the ambulance, and before her arrival, take the first steps to reduce swelling.

The patient is seated on a hill, for example, a bench and try to place any objects under the sick leg, so that the limb is placed as high as possible.

Apply the ice to the problem site if the patient has bruised the knee.

What if there is no ice? Cold objects are suitable: glass jars, bottles - they should be cooled with water at short intervals.

Cooling will create a local narrowing of the blood vessels and reduce the spread of edema, hemorrhage.

Preventive measures against knee injuries are not enough, trauma always happens unexpectedly, so first aid plays a primary role.

Some people do not attach any importance to this, the bruise goes away, but sometimes after a few years problems with joint mobility begin because of the gradually developed complications.

Treatment of a knee cap

With a strong injury, a puncture is performed in order to remove the accumulated blood and fluid. To relieve pain, pain medications such as Analgin, Diclofenac, Dolaren, Ketanov and others are used.

Lubricating the joint with ointments from bruising produces a distracting effect.

Apply a fixative supporting bandage, which does not limit movement completely, only helps to protect the weakened joint from unnecessary loads.

Application of medical gymnastics

Physical training and exercises help to fully repair the rupture of the cruciate ligament of the knee.

Symptoms of severe lesions are passing, and the time of recovery begins. A prerequisite for the commencement of classes is the cessation of pain.

Doing regularly, 2-3 times a day, all exercises are done 10 times each. The main exercises are:

  • extensor and bending movements of the knee joint, which are made with a light injury, but prematurely the ligaments do not load after rupture;
  • the technique of static tension of the hip and ankle muscles is used to increase the tone and stimulation of blood circulation as rehabilitation after trauma;
  • To strengthen the muscles of the leg, apply a turn of the foot from side to side;
  • two weeks after the injury, simple semi-squats near the wall perform, the knees look forward, the back is straight;
  • the next exercise is lifting on the socks to maximize the calf muscles;
  • exercises in the third month after the injury are performed with burdening, take small dumbbells in the hands, squatting is performed in a lower position;
  • training will be slow walking on the stairs and practicing on the stationary bike.
  • make daily walks, the distance is determined individually, depending on the state of health.

Injuries happen unexpectedly, but you need to take them seriously, you can not neglect the sprain of the ligament or a bruise for the sake of congestion at work or other matters.

Incorrect treatment and incomplete rehabilitation become an obstacle to the normal functioning of the joint in subsequent years and provide restriction of movement in the elderly.

A source: http://.ru/article/243276/razryiv-krestoobraznoy-svyazki-kolena-prichinyi-pervaya-pomosch-lechenie