POSTERIOR CRUCIATE LIGAMENT (PCL)

The PCL helps to keep the tibia from sliding too far back relative to the femur. PCL injuries can range from mild sprains to complete tears and can occur due to a sudden impact, such as a car accident or a fall, or from a direct blow to the front of the knee while it is bent. Symptoms of a PCL injury can include pain, swelling, instability in the knee joint, and difficulty walking or bearing weight on the affected leg.

Need to know

What happens during surgery?

During PCL surgery, the patient is put under general anaesthesia. The surgeon makes a small incision in the knee to access the PCL. The torn ligament is then removed, and the surgeon replaces it with a graft taken from the patient’s hamstring tendon or a cadaver. The graft is secured to the femur and tibia using screws or other fixation devices. The surgeon may also repair any other damaged structures in the knee, such as the meniscus or other ligaments, if necessary.

How to prepare?

To determine the severity of a PCL injury, doctor will perform a physical examination on the patient. The most common test used is the Posterior Drawer test, where the patient’s knee is bent at a 80-90 degree angle and the doctor applies pressure to the knee to determine the strength of the PCL. If the doctor feels an increase in translation of more than 10mm, they may recommend surgery. Additional tests, such as observing the Sag sign or performing an Active Quadriceps test, may also be done. For more accurate injury identification, imaging procedures like an MRI or X-ray may also be recommended

After PCL surgery?

After the surgery, the patient may need to wear a brace to limit movement in the knee and use crutches to avoid putting weight on the leg. Physical therapy will also be necessary to help regain strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the knee joint. The recovery time for PCL surgery can vary depending on the extent of the injury and the individual’s healing process, but it can take several months before the patient can return to normal activities.