The PCL, or Posterior Cruciate Ligament, is a crucial component of the knee joint that connects the tibia and femur bones at the back of the knee, along with the ACL. Unlike the ACL, which is primarily active during high-risk physical activity, the PCL is constantly engaged, working to prevent backward motion of the lower leg. It is a robust ligament that is almost twice the size of the ACL and is vital for maintaining knee stability during everyday activities, including walking.
A PCL tear refers to an injury that happens when the PCL ligament gets stretched or torn due to contact trauma. Symptoms of a PCL tear can include mild pain, swelling, and a feeling of instability in the knee. PCL injuries are frequently observed in contact sports such as soccer, rugby, and football. However, they are also commonly referred to as "dashboard injuries" because they can occur when a person's knee hits the dashboard during a car accident, resulting in the shinbone pushing backward and tearing the PCL.
PCL reconstruction is typically recommended for individuals who have experienced a complete tear of the PCL ligament, as well as for those who have a partial tear that causes significant instability or chronic pain in the knee. Indications for PCL reconstruction may include
In many cases, PCL injuries are treated non-operatively. However, if the ligament experiences a more severe tear causing persistent dysfunction, a PCL reconstruction may be needed. Your orthopaedic Surgeon offers PCL surgery to patients who have experienced disability caused by a PCL tear.
Reconstruction is a surgical procedure used to repair a torn posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) in the knee. The procedure involves replacing the damaged PCL with a graft from another part of the body or from a donor. The graft is attached to the bones in the knee using screws, anchors, or other fixation devices.
The surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia and can be done using minimally invasive techniques such as arthroscopy. After the surgery, patients may need to undergo a period of rehabilitation and physical therapy to restore strength and mobility to the knee.
The ultimate goal of PCL reconstruction is to restore stability and function to the knee joint, allowing patients to resume their normal activities. It's important to consult with a qualified orthopaedic surgeon for advice and treatment options if you have a PCL injury.
