Mr. Long, a 37-year-old man, had multiple anterior cruciate ligament injuries from playing sports, which led to degeneration and instability in his knee joint. He delayed seeking medical help due to persistent pain and difficulty walking. Dr. Nguyen Van Luu from Tam Anh General Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City explained that the failure rate for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction is around 5%, often due to inappropriate physical therapy or returning to sports too soon.
Due to delaying treatment, Mr. Long’s knee joint had torn meniscus, instability, effusion, and mild degeneration. To repair the damage and restore mobility, Dr. Luu prescribed a less invasive technique using autologous tendons from goose legs for reconstruction surgery. The doctor also reconstructed the anterior lateral ligament with the iliotibial band to increase stability.
Following the surgery, Mr. Long experienced relief from pain and was able to walk independently the next day. He was given a locking brace to aid in recovery and started a 6-month physical therapy program. Dr. Luu emphasized the importance of early treatment for ligament injuries to prevent complications like osteoarthritis.
Recovery from ligament reconstruction surgery takes at least 6 months before returning to sports is safe. Dr. Luu also warned about the increased risk of re-rupture for patients who have experienced multiple ligament tears.
Patients should seek medical attention promptly for timely treatment and avoid long-term complications by following a strict exercise regimen and protecting the new ligament while recovering after surgery.
Mr. Long’s experience serves as a reminder that delaying treatment can worsen injuries and lead to long-term complications like osteoarthritis or re-rupture of other ligaments in the knee joint.
In conclusion, early treatment for ligament injuries is crucial in restoring mobility and preventing long-term complications like osteoarthritis or re-rupture of other ligaments in the knee joint.
Dr. Luu advises patients who have experienced multiple ligament tears to follow a strict exercise regimen and protect their new ligaments while recovering after surgery.
Early treatment can significantly reduce recovery time and minimize tissue damage caused by injury or degeneration of the knee joint.
If you are experiencing persistent pain or difficulty walking due to an anterior cruciate ligament injury or degeneration of your knee joint, it’s important to seek medical attention promptly before it’s too late.
