Collateral Ligament Tear (MCL/LCL)

Question 1

What are the symptoms

Answer 1

1. Swelling
2. Stiffness
3. Pain
4. Local bruising

Question 2

What are the PE findings

Answer 2

1. Tenderness
2. Palpation
   *MCL (15 degrees of flexion)
   *LCL (figure 4 position)

Question 3

What labs to order?

Answer 3

1. Radiographs (AP, LAT, stress)
2. MRI (gold standard)
3. Ultrasound

Question 4

What is the treatment

Answer 4

1. Grade I and II
   *hinged knee brace, PRICE
2. Grade III
   *MCL = progressive WB over 6 weeks bracing 3-4 months, may need surgery if distal or mid-substance
   *LCL = surgery