Combined Anterior Cruciate Ligament and Medial Collateral Ligament Knee Injuries: Anatomy, Diagnosis, Management Recommendations, and Return to Sport

Abstract

Purpose of review The diagnosis and management of combined anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and medial collateral ligament (MCL) injuries have been a controversial topic for several decades. No single approach has proven optimal for treatment and there is no consensus between most specialists. This review seeks to describe and clarify the current state and the future of management. Recent findings Most authors agree on reconstructing of the ACL with non-operative management of the MCL in grade I and II injuries, respectively. However, controversy still exists about the optimal method of treating a combined ACL with higher grade MCL injuries. Summary Management should be customized based on acuity, injury grade, and specific goals for each patient. Future research with clinical outcomes may facilitate creating guidelines to optimize recovery.