Will I need knee surgery or will physical therapy fix me?

[InPainNFreakingOut]

I got in a fight with the ice last week and the ice won! My foot went one direction, but my knee went another. Just before I hit the ground, I felt and HEARD a 'pop'! My MRI report reads:

"The menisci and cruciate ligaments are intact. High grade proximal medial collateral ligament sprain. The medial retinaculum is nearly completely torn from its femoral attachment. Articular cartilage ulcer at the medial patellar facet. Suspect transient patellar dislocation despite the lack of osseous contusion at the patellar and femoral trochlea."

I understand what the report says as I have taken anatomy and physiology, but am unsure if these are injuries that will heal with time, physical therapy, surgery, or a combination. Can anyone help me? I'm a disabled veteran and all of my care comes from the VA. I am concerned that the wrong decision will be made regarding my care. The VA doesn't have the best of reputations for surgery! I wish I could see an orthopedic surgeon elsewhere but I can't afford it. I'm also getting married in 6 months and I'm kinda freaking out! Thanks in advance for any answers you can give me!

[weezer555]

http://www.ucsfhealth.org/conditions/mcl_tear/treatment.html

Read above link regarding your mcl injury, its informative and easy to understand.

[Dr Vinod]

Hello!

Yes, you can wear a immobilizer as this will help the cause. Initially do not bend your knee, no flexion till you recover and till your orthopedician allows you for physiotherapy.

Take care!

[InPainNFreakingOut]

Thank you Dr. Vinod for your response. You mentioned a hinged brace. I am currently wearing an immobilizer that extends from just above my ankle to my middle thigh area. Would it be of more benefit to have something that would allow me to bend the knee? What I have found is that my knee isn't very stable without the immobilizer but should I be bending it?
Thanks!

[Dr Vinod]

Hello!

Non-operative treatment protocol consists of RICE, pain medications, activity modification by limiting movements and weight bearing. Protection with a hinged brace is a compulsion for recovery. In some cases below knee cast is also given

Grade 3 MCL tears usually require surgery so discuss with an expert orthopedician.

Take care!