- Physical examination: Assessment of the knee’s position, stability, and range of motion, along with checking for pulse and sensation in the lower leg.
- X-rays: Plain radiographs taken from multiple angles to confirm the dislocation and identify any associated fractures of the knee bones.
- MRI scanning: Magnetic resonance imaging to assess the extent of ligament, cartilage, and soft tissue damage around the knee joint.
- CT scanning: Computed tomography may be used to provide detailed images of bone structures and identify complex fracture patterns.
- Vascular assessment: Specialised tests to check blood flow to the lower leg, as knee dislocations can compromise blood vessels.
DR. ONG KEE LEONG
Knee Dislocation Singapore
Knee dislocation is a rare but severe orthopaedic emergency that can cause significant disruption to joint stability and surrounding soft tissue structures. Unlike minor sprains or ligament injuries, this condition requires urgent medical attention. Understanding the potential causes, symptoms, and treatment pathways is essential for timely intervention and long-term joint preservation.
Book AppointmentWhat is Knee Dislocation?
A knee dislocation occurs when the bones of the knee joint are forcibly displaced from their normal alignment. This typically involves separation between the thighbone (femur) and shinbone (tibia). It is a serious orthopaedic injury that usually results from high-impact trauma such as motor vehicle accidents, sports collisions, or falls from a height. Immediate medical treatment is essential, as a knee dislocation can affect surrounding blood vessels and nerves.
Knee Dislocation Treatment in Singapore
Non-Surgical Treatment
Non-surgical approaches may be considered for certain knee dislocations, particularly after the joint has been properly repositioned:
- Immediate reduction: The knee joint is carefully manipulated back into its correct position, typically performed under sedation or anaesthesia.
- Immobilisation: The knee is placed in a brace or cast to maintain proper alignment whilst initial healing occurs over several weeks.
- Physiotherapy: A structured rehabilitation programme to restore knee movement, strength, and stability once the initial healing phase is complete.
Surgical Treatment
Surgical intervention is often required for knee dislocations due to the extent of ligament and structural damage:
- Ligament reconstruction: Surgical repair or reconstruction of torn knee ligaments using tissue grafts to restore stability to the joint.
- Arthroscopic surgery: Minimally invasive keyhole surgery to address cartilage damage, remove loose fragments, and assess internal joint structures.
- Open surgical repair: Direct surgical approach to repair severely damaged ligaments, joint capsule, and other structures that cannot be addressed arthroscopically.
- External fixation: Temporary placement of external metal frames to maintain knee alignment whilst severe soft tissue injuries begin to heal.
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Types of Knee Dislocation
Different types of knee dislocation are classified based on the direction of displacement:
Anterior dislocation
The shinbone moves forward relative to the thighbone, often caused by dashboard injuries or direct impact to the front of the knee.
Posterior dislocation
The shinbone moves backward, typically resulting from falls onto a bent knee or direct force to the front of the lower leg.
Lateral or medial dislocation
The bones move sideways, which is less common and usually involves significant ligament damage on multiple sides of the knee.
Rotatory dislocation
The bones twist relative to each other, often combined with other displacement directions and representing more complex injury patterns.
Why Do Patients Choose Dr Ong Kee Leong?
- Dr. Ong Is Passionate In Sports, Giving Him A Deep Understanding Of Sports-Related Injuries And How They Can Be Treated
- Personalised And Professional Approach To Deliver High-Quality Orthopaedic Care Based On The Most Up-To-Date Literature
- Detailed Aftercare Plan To Ensure Smooth, Long-Term Recovery
- Fellowship Trained Surgeon With 15 Years Of Experience In Orthopaedic Conditions
- Problem-Oriented, Well-Organised and Individualized Treatment Plans Catered To Your Specific Needs
- Specialist In The Management Of Sports Injuries And Degenerative Conditions Of The Shoulder And Knee Joints
- Knowledgeable And Pleasant Clinical Staff To Assist You With Your Every Need Detailed Aftercare Plan To Ensure
- Our Care Is Conveniently Accessible At Mount Elizabeth Novena and Farrer Park Hospital
- Minimal Waiting Time For Initial Consultation
- Assistance With Medical Claims (e.g. Medisave & Integrated Shield Plans)
About Dr. Ong Kee Leong
Senior Consultant, MBBS (Singapore), MMed (Ortho), FRCSEd (Ortho)
Dr. Ong Kee Leong is a fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeon. He subspecializes in shoulder and knee, foot and ankle, hand wrist and elbow surgeries, arthroscopic sports surgery, and the management of sports-related injuries.
He has been registered with the Singapore Medical Council as a specialist in Orthopaedic Surgery since 2011.
- MBBS, National University of Singapore (NUS) Faculty of Medicine 2001
- Member of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh 2007
- Master of Medicine in Orthopaedic Surgery (NUS) 2007
- Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh in Orthopaedic Surgery 2011
- Health Manpower Development Plan (HMDP) Scholarship, Ministry of Health 2012-2013:
- Sports Surgery and Arthroscopy in Germany (Hannover)
- Adjunct Assistant Professor, Lee Kong Chian School Of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University
- Senior Clinical Lecturer, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, NUS
Awards & Teaching
- Dr. Ong had received numerous awards such as Best Service and Eastern Health Alliance Caring (Gold) Awards.
- He also has an interest in clinical research and has written papers in multiple peer-review journals. As a Core Faculty of Singhealth Orthopaedic Surgery Residency Program, he oversees the training of junior orthopaedic surgeons.
- Regularly invited to teach local and regional surgeons in Shoulder and Knee Surgery Courses.
- He is a recipient of multiple teaching awards including the Singhealth Residency Outstanding Faculty Awards from 2014-2016 and Changi General Hospital Outstanding Educator Awards 2015-2016.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long does recovery take after a knee dislocation?
Recovery time varies significantly depending on the extent of damage and treatment method, but typically ranges from 6 months to over a year for complete rehabilitation. Surgical cases generally require longer recovery periods than those treated non-surgically.
Will I develop arthritis after a knee dislocation?
Knee dislocations carry a higher risk of developing post-traumatic arthritis in the future due to cartilage damage that occurs during the injury. Regular follow-up appointments help monitor for early signs of joint degeneration.
Can a dislocated knee relocate itself spontaneously?
Some knee dislocations may spontaneously reduce (move back into position) before medical treatment, but this does not mean the injury is less serious. Significant ligament damage typically remains even if the bones appear properly aligned.
What are the warning signs of complications after knee dislocation treatment in Singapore?
Warning signs include increasing pain, numbness or tingling in the foot, colour changes in the lower leg, or inability to move the ankle or toes. These symptoms require immediate medical evaluation as they may indicate blood vessel or nerve complications.
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- 38 Irrawaddy Road #06-59/60/61 Mt Elizabeth Novena Specialist Centre Singapore 329563
- klong@sog.sg
- (65) 6884 6788
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- (65) 9652 5022
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Mon – Fri : 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
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other practice locations
Farrer Park Hospital
- 1 Farrer Park Station Road #14-06 Connexion Singapore 217562
- klong@sog.sg
- (65) 6884 6788
- (Ask for Dr Ong)
- (65) 9652 5022
-
Mon – Fri : 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Sat : 9:00 am – 1:00 pm
Mt Alvernia Medical Centre
- 820 Thomson Road #07-53 Mt Alvernia Medical Centre D Singapore 574623
- klong@sog.sg
- (65) 6884 6788
- (Ask for Dr Ong)
- (65) 9652 5022
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Mon – Fri : 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Sat : 9:00 am – 1:00 pm
"Moving your body the way nature intended is a freedom not well appreciated until it is lost. We are passionate about getting you back in the game, and staying in the game. Our team is fully committed to returning you to the life and activities you love."
Dr. Ong Kee Leong
Diagnostic Methods
When to See an Orthopaedic Surgeon in Singapore
Knee dislocations require immediate medical attention due to the risk of nerve and vascular injury. Anyone experiencing sudden knee deformity, severe pain, or difficulty moving the leg after trauma should consult an orthopaedic surgeon without delay. An orthopaedic surgeon in Singapore can provide comprehensive treatment tailored to your specific injury and lifestyle goals.
Causes and Risk Factors of Knee Dislocation
Several factors can lead to knee dislocation:
High-energy trauma
Motor vehicle accidents, particularly dashboard injuries where the knee strikes the dashboard with significant force. These account for the majority of knee dislocations.
Sports injuries
Contact sports such as rugby, football, or skiing can cause knee dislocations through direct impact or awkward landings.
Falls from height
Falling from a significant height and landing on the legs can generate enough force to dislocate the knee joint.
Previous knee injuries
Individuals with prior knee ligament damage or instability may have an increased risk of dislocation during physical activities.
Hypermobility conditions
Some people with naturally loose joints or connective tissue disorders may be more prone to joint dislocations.
Symptoms of Knee Dislocation
The following symptoms are commonly experienced with a knee dislocation:
-
Intense knee pain
Sharp, severe pain that develops immediately after the injury and may worsen with any attempt to move the leg.
-
Visible deformity
The knee may appear obviously out of shape or positioned abnormally compared to the uninjured leg.
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Inability to bear weight
Complete inability to put weight on the affected leg or stand on it without extreme discomfort.
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Swelling and bruising
Rapid swelling around the knee joint, often accompanied by bruising that may extend above and below the knee.
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Numbness or tingling
Loss of sensation or pins and needles feeling in the lower leg or foot, particularly around the ankle and toes.
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Coldness in the foot
The foot may feel cold to touch or appear pale compared to the uninjured side.
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