Dislocated Knee
A dislocated knee is where the Femur (thigh bone) and the Tibia (shin bone) are moved apart. This is different to a patella (kneecap) dislocation, and is a far more serious injury.
Symptoms of a Dislocated Knee
- Sudden severe pain from a traumatic injury.
- Joint deformity.
- Instant swelling.
- Rapid bruising.
- Inability to move the knee or bear weight at all.
- Numbness in the lower leg or foot indicates nerve damage.
- No pulse in the foot, or a pale, cold foot indicates blood vessel damage.
If a dislocation is suspected, then medical attention should be sought immediately. An X-ray can confirm that the joint is dislocated. An MRI scan may be used to detect soft tissue injuries.
What is a Dislocated Knee?
Knee dislocations occur following highly traumatic injuries to the knee. Often road traffic accidents are the cause of such an injury, although they may occasionally happen from sporting tackles or falls.
For a knee dislocation to occur, there is significant soft tissue damage, especially to the ligaments which support the joint. The ACL and PCL are almost always ruptured, as well as possible damage to the MCL, LCL and cartilage. Other complications can include nerve and blood vessel damage.
A knee dislocation is different to a subluxation, which is a partial dislocation, where the bones separate slightly and then move back together.
Treatment
- The joint is repositioned (known as reduced).
- The blood vessels and nerves should be carefully monitored for damage.
- Surgical reconstruction is usually required to repair torn ligaments and cartilage.
- A thorough rehabilitation programme is then required to regain full knee mobility, strength and balance.
