Complications in the multiple-ligament-injured knee

Multiple-ligament knee injuries require careful evaluation to make an accurate diagnosis and to identify associated neurovascular injuries that can threaten limb viability. Other concomitant bony and soft-tissue injuries may include open joint injuries, fracture-dislocations, and compartment syndrome. Surgical reconstruction of multiple-ligament knee injuries requires careful preoperative planning and surgical timing to decrease the potential for iatrogenic neurovascular injuries and wound complications. Postoperative loss of motion and residual instability can result in severe functional deficits. Other complications related to surgical reconstruction may include tourniquet problems, anterior knee pain, medial femoral condyle ostenecrosis, heterotopic ossification, and compartment syndrome. This article reviews the complications that are often associated with multiple-ligament knee injuries.