Knee Dislocation
A serious knee injury where the bones are forced out of alignment, often requiring urgent care
A knee dislocation occurs when the bones that make up the knee joint are forced out of alignment, often resulting from high-impact trauma. This serious injury requires immediate medical attention. Dr Ben McGrath, an orthopaedic specialist, provides expert assessment and personalised treatment plans to stabilise the knee, relieve pain, and support recovery.
- What is a Knee Dislocation?
- Common Symptoms of Knee Dislocation
- Causes and Risk Factors for Knee Dislocation
- Diagnosis of Knee Dislocation
- Non-Surgical Treatments for Knee Dislocation
- Surgical Treatments for Knee Dislocation
- When to See Dr Ben McGrath for Knee Pain or Instability
- FAQs About Knee Dislocation
What is a Knee Dislocation?
A knee dislocation is a severe injury where the thigh bone (femur) and shin bone (tibia) are completely displaced from their normal alignment. This condition is different from a patellar (kneecap) dislocation and often involves damage to the surrounding ligaments, tendons, blood vessels, and nerves. Knee dislocations usually result from high-impact trauma and can lead to serious complications if not treated promptly.
Common Symptoms of Knee Dislocation
Patients with a knee dislocation may experience the following symptoms:
- Severe Pain: Intense pain in the knee, which often worsens with movement.
- Visible Deformity: The knee may appear visibly out of alignment or misshapen.
- Swelling and Bruising: Rapid swelling and bruising around the knee joint, especially within the first few hours after injury.
- Instability and Loss of Function: Difficulty bearing weight on the affected leg, often accompanied by feelings of instability.
- Numbness or Tingling: Damage to blood vessels or nerves can cause numbness or tingling in the lower leg.
Immediate medical attention is essential for knee dislocations due to the risk of vascular or nerve injury.
Causes and Risk Factors for Knee Dislocation
Several factors can increase the likelihood of knee dislocation:
- High-Impact Trauma: Events such as motor vehicle accidents, falls from heights, or sports collisions often cause knee dislocations.
- Sports Injuries: Contact sports or activities that involve significant twisting or impact increase the risk.
- Previous Knee Injuries: A history of knee injuries may weaken the joint, making it more vulnerable to dislocation.
- Obesity: Excess weight can put additional strain on the knee, increasing the risk of dislocation, especially during falls or sudden movements.
Dr McGrath considers these factors when assessing the injury and advising on preventive measures where possible.
Diagnosis of Knee Dislocation
Dr Ben McGrath uses a comprehensive diagnostic approach to confirm knee dislocation and assess potential complications:
- Physical Examination: Dr McGrath assesses visible deformity, swelling, and overall knee stability. He will also check for signs of vascular or nerve damage, such as changes in pulse or sensation.
- Imaging Tests: X-rays are used initially to confirm the dislocation. MRI or CT scans may be recommended to assess soft tissue, ligament damage, and to rule out fractures or vascular injuries.
Prompt and accurate diagnosis is essential to ensure effective treatment and prevent further complications.
Non-Surgical Treatments for Knee Dislocation
Non-surgical management may be suitable for some stable knee dislocations, with treatment options including:
- Closed Reduction: Dr McGrath may perform a closed reduction, a non-surgical procedure to realign the bones, which is typically done under sedation or anaesthesia.
- Bracing and Immobilisation: Once the knee is realigned, a brace or cast may be used to immobilise the knee and allow healing. Bracing may be recommended for a few weeks, depending on the injury’s severity.
- Physiotherapy: Rehabilitation with a physiotherapist is essential once the knee begins to heal. Physiotherapy exercises strengthen the muscles, restore range of motion, and improve stability.
Non-surgical treatments aim to stabilise the knee and restore function while minimising further trauma to the joint.
Surgical Treatments for Knee Dislocation
Surgery may be necessary if there is extensive ligament damage, vascular injury, or if the dislocation is unstable. Surgical options include:
- Ligament Repair or Reconstruction: If multiple ligaments are torn, surgical repair or reconstruction may be required to stabilise the knee and restore joint function.
- Vascular Repair: If blood vessels are damaged, vascular repair may be necessary to restore blood flow and prevent complications.
- Nerve Repair: In cases of nerve damage, surgical intervention may be required to repair nerves and minimise long-term functional loss.
Dr McGrath carefully considers each patient’s condition and risk factors before recommending surgery, ensuring a comprehensive approach to knee stability and recovery.
When to See Dr Ben McGrath for Knee Pain or Instability
If you experience sudden knee dislocation or symptoms such as pain, visible deformity, or difficulty bearing weight, seek immediate medical attention. Following reduction, a consultation with Dr McGrath can provide ongoing care, personalised rehabilitation, and advanced treatment options as needed.
FAQs About Knee Dislocation
Stable dislocations without severe ligament damage may heal with closed reduction and immobilisation. However, cases with extensive ligament or vascular injury often require surgery.
Recovery times vary depending on the severity of the injury and whether surgery is needed, but it generally takes several months. Physiotherapy is essential for restoring function and strength.
While many patients recover well, knee dislocations can increase the risk of osteoarthritis and recurrent instability. Ongoing rehabilitation and follow-up care are essential to minimise these risks.