Lindsey Vonn undergoes successful knee surgery

11 February 2013 04:47

Lindsey Vonn, who tore two knee ligaments during a crash at the alpine world championships, underwent successful surgery on her right knee, doctors said.

"The overall success rate for ACL/MCL surgery is very good," said Bill Sterett, doctor for the US Women's Alpine Ski Team.

"Modern surgical techniques combined with aggressive rehabilitation will help Lindsey make a full recovery.

"She will do everything in her power to return as quickly as possible to competitive skiing."

Sterett also said the four time overall World Cup champion was resting comfortably Sunday night after undergoing the surgery at the Vail Valley Surgery Center.

Vonn suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and torn medial collateral ligament (MCL) in a horrific crash Tuesday at the Alpine Ski World Championships in Schladmin, Austria. She also suffered a lateral tibial plateau fracture.

Vonn is out for the remainder of this season but is expected to return to racing for the 2013-14 World Cup season and the 2014 Olympic Games in Sochi, Russia.

Vonn is hoping to make a full recovery similar to that of former American speed queen Picabo Street, who came back the next season after reconstructive surgery to win an Olympic gold medal in 1998 at Nagano, Japan.

Source: AFP