PCL reconstruction is a surgical procedure performed to repair or reconstruct the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) in the knee. The PCL is one of the four major ligaments in the knee joint, and it plays a critical role in stabilizing the knee by preventing the tibia (shin bone) from moving too far backward relative to the femur (thigh bone).
PCL injuries often occur as a result of trauma, such as car accidents, sports injuries, or falls. When the PCL is injured, it can lead to instability and decreased knee function. Depending on the severity of the injury and the patient’s activity level, PCL reconstruction may be recommended to restore stability and function to the knee joint.
The majority of isolated PCL injuries are treated non operatively with bracing , physiotherapy etc .
Patient specific factors or other ligament injuries in combination with a PCL injury may lead to surgery.
Before surgery, the patient undergoes a thorough evaluation, which may include physical examinations, imaging tests (such as MRI), and medical history review. The surgeon assesses the extent of the PCL injury, any associated injuries, and plans the reconstruction surgery accordingly.
- During surgery the patient is placed under general anesthesia, which means they are asleep and don’t feel any pain.
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- The procedure is done by a combination of keyhole surgery and small incisions around the knee to harvest grafts, fix other ligaments etc.
- Common graft options include autografts (tissue from the patient’s own body) such as the hamstring tendons, allografts (tissue from a donor), or artificial grafts LARS ligament.
- Small bone tunnels are drilled into the tibia and femur to mimic the natural course of the PCL and the grafts are fixed in position.
- After surgery, the patient undergoes a rehabilitation program that includes physical therapy. Physical therapy helps restore strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the knee. The patient’s activity level and progress guide the rehabilitation process.
- Recovery time varies depending on the extent of the injury, the surgical technique used, and the patient’s commitment to rehabilitation. Most patients can expect to gradually return to normal activities over a period of several months.
PCL reconstruction can be a successful procedure in restoring knee stability and function for individuals with PCL injuries. However, like any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications. It’s important for patients to have a thorough discussion with their orthopedic surgeon to understand the benefits, risks, and expected outcomes of PCL reconstruction. The surgeon will tailor the treatment plan to the patient’s specific needs and circumstances.