Ultrasound-Guided Suture Tape Augmentation and Stabilization of the Medial Collateral Ligament

Abstract

Management of medial collateral ligament (MCL) injuries usually consists of time and conservative management; however, patients are typically immobilized and need extensive time to return to sport. Although the MCL has been shown to have the ability to heal given time, surgical management is still sometimes needed to provide stability to the knee. Operative techniques vary in methodology, but are typically highly invasive and technically demanding. In the event of multiligamentous or severe injuries, reinforcing the MCL with an ultrahigh-strength, 2-mm-wide suture tape allows for early functional rehabilitation, permitting the native MCL tissue to heal and avoiding late reconstructions. This technical report details an ultrasound-guided technique for the percutaneous suture tape augmentation and stabilization of the MCL with or without repair. Ultrasound allows for anatomic percutaneous placement of the sockets, as opposed to landmark palpation guidance that has proven to be unreliable. This is a simple, quick procedure that provides instant stability to the MCL with or without operating on the ligament itself, allowing patients to return to activity faster with the reduced risk of reinjury due to less muscle atrophy and loss of function.