Treatment of Knee Dislocation With Primary Repair and Suture Augmentation: A Viable Solution

BACKGROUND: Different surgical techniques have been described for the treatment of knee dislocation (KD). Nonoperative approaches are frequently combined with surgical reconstruction using auto- or allograft. PURPOSE: To evaluate the midterm results of primary surgical repair and suture augmentation to treat KD. STUDY DESIGN: Case series; Level of evidence, 4. METHODS: A total of 22 patients (5 women, 17 men; mean age, 45 ± 15 years) with KD were evaluated at a mean of 49 ± 16 months after surgical treatment that included primary repair and suture augmentation. Magnetic resonance imaging, stress radiographs, and outcome scores were obtained at the follow-up. Clinical examination including hop tests and force measurements for flexion and extension was performed. RESULTS: The mean difference in pre- to postinjury Tegner scores was –2 ± 1. The outcome scores showed mean values of 84 ± 15 (Lysholm), 73 ± 15 (International Knee Documentation Committee) and 65 ± 25 (Anterior Cruciate Ligament–Return to Sport after Injury scale). Compared with the uninjured knee, the range of motion of the injured knee was reduced by 21° ± 12°. Twelve patients felt fit enough to perform hop tests and showed a mean deficit of 7% ± 17%° compared with the uninjured leg. The mean force deficit was 19% ± 18% for extension and 8% ± 16% for flexion. Stress radiographs revealed an 11 ± 7–mm higher anteroposterior translation on the injured side. Four patients had secondary ligament reconstructions due to persistent instability and 7 underwent arthroscopic arthrolysis due to stiffness. A significant increase of osteoarthritis was found for the medial, lateral, and patellofemoral compartments (P = .007, .004, and .006, respectively). CONCLUSION: Primary repair and suture augmentation of KD led to satisfactory clinical midterm results despite persistent radiological instability and a significant increase in osteoarthritis. This technique allows the return to activities of daily living without subjective instability in most nonathletic patients. Secondary ligament reconstructions should be performed if relevant instability persists to decrease the risk of secondary meniscal and cartilage damage.