Mr. Long, a 37-year-old man, had experienced multiple anterior cruciate ligament injuries while playing sports without proper treatment. After years of enduring persistent knee pain and difficulty walking, he sought medical help. Doctor Nguyen Van Luu from Tam Anh General Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City explained that anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction can have a failure rate of 5%, leading to re-rupture or abnormalities in the knee joint.
Due to Mr. Long’s delayed treatment, his knee joint had degenerated, leading to joint jamming and instability. To repair the damage and restore mobility, the doctor recommended reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament using autologous tendons and the all-inside technique to minimize risks and speed up recovery. The torn meniscus was also reshaped, increasing the stability of the knee joint.
To prevent complications such as muscle atrophy and joint stiffness, a multimodal pain relief model was used after surgery. Within two days, Mr. Long was able to walk independently and perform personal activities without pain. He was given a locking brace to aid in recovery and advised to follow a 6-month physical therapy program.
Dr. Luu stressed the importance of early treatment for ligament injuries to avoid complications like prolonged pain and loose knee joints, which can lead to osteoarthritis. Patients should seek medical attention promptly and follow the prescribed recovery regimen to prevent re-ruptures and ensure successful recovery.
It is recommended that patients wait at least six months before returning to sports after ligament reconstruction surgery.
In summary, delayed treatment of anterior cruciate ligament injuries can lead to severe complications such as prolonged pain and loose knee joints that can eventually lead to osteoarthritis. Early treatment is crucial for successful recovery, minimizing risks of re-ruptures or abnormalities in the knee joint.
Therefore, it is essential for athletes who experience ligament injuries while playing sports seek medical attention promptly following an appropriate recovery regimen prescribed by their physicians before resuming any physical activity post-surgery or return to sports after six months post-surgery.
