Multiligament knee injury with common peroneal nerve palsy in a long jump athlete with 4-year follow-up: A case report

INTRODUCTION: Multiligament knee injuries (MLKIs) are difficult to manage occurrence and are usually associated with poor functional outcomes. Knee dislocations involving both cruciate ligaments are relatively rare compared to other multifilament injuries involving one cruciate ligament and a collateral ligament. Multiple studies have reported the Tegnor score after surgery as 3 or 4. In 44% of cases with posterolateral corner (PLC) injury and biceps femoris tendon rupture or avulsion of the fibular head, a palsy of the common peroneal nerve (CPN) occurs. About half of these cases do not exhibit functional recovery. CASE REPORT: A 20 years old long jump national athlete sustained varus and hyperextension injury leading to a multiligament knee injury (anterior cruciate ligament, posterior cruciate ligament, PLC, and medial collateral ligament) and CPN palsy. After a staged surgical procedure and structured rehabilitation protocol, the athlete was able to return to preinjury level in 18 months. At present, 4 years postoperatively, the patient can walk full weight-bearing with no instability. On the latest follow-up, the Lachman’s test is negative, posterior drawer test negative, varus, and valgus stress test negative. Knee ranges of motion 0 to 140 degrees. The patient reported that Tegnor Score was 8. CONCLUSION: Surgical management of MKLI with CPN palsy can give reasonable functional outcome.