How Car Accidents Injure the Knee
"Dashboard knee" — striking the dashboard in a frontal collision — is a classic mechanism. Bracing with a stiff leg, side impacts, and twisting forces also injure ligaments, menisci, cartilage, and bone.
- ACL tear: Most commonly torn knee ligament in accidents. Complete tears typically require surgical reconstruction.
- Meniscus tear: Cartilage pads damaged by twisting forces. Severe tears require arthroscopic repair.
- PCL injury: Posterior cruciate ligament stressed specifically by dashboard impact.
- Patellar fracture: Direct kneecap impact requiring surgical fixation.
- Tibial plateau fracture: Serious fracture of the shinbone top, often requiring surgery.
Diagnosis and Treatment at MAIC
MRI is essential for soft tissue knee injuries. MAIC's orthopedic surgeons evaluate and perform arthroscopic and reconstructive procedures on-site. Complete documentation from initial injury through surgical repair and rehabilitation — all in one clinical record.
MAIC orthopedic surgeons treat serious knee injuries. MRI diagnosis through arthroscopic repair under one roof. Call 866-404-MAIC.