Yes, that sounds like the display data cable is damaged. Here is the needed IFIXIT guide to get to it: [guide|1312|MacBook Pro 15" Core 2 Duo Models A1226 and A1260 Display Data Cable Replacement]. And here's the needed part: [product|IF185-133|MacBook Pro 15" (Models A1226/A1260) Display Data Cable].
You may want to think hard here if it is worth fixing. First its a lot of work and while $50 dollars is not much this may push your skill set. Before you start I would recommend making a backup of your drive just in case.