Arthroscopic posterior cruciate ligament repair

Arthroscopy. 2002 Sep;18(7):695-702. doi: 10.1053/jars.2002.32836.

Abstract

Purpose: We present our technique of arthroscopic repair for femoral avulsion soft-tissue tears of the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) and its results.

Type of study: Case series, retrospective review.

Methods: We performed 13 arthroscopic repairs of the PCL and reviewed them retrospectively. Follow-up was available for 11 (85%) patients. Nonabsorbable monofilament sutures were placed through the loose fibers of the ligament and tied over a bone bridge. Patients were evaluated using magnetic resonance imaging, comparative stress views, and according to the scoring systems of Lysholm and Gillquist and the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC).

Results: Mean follow-up was 51.4 months. IKDC scores revealed 4 (36.4%) patients with normal knee function, and 7 (63.6%) with nearly normal function. Average Lysholm and Gillquist score was 95.4 (90 to 100). All athletes returned to the same or a higher level of competition.

Conclusions: Arthroscopic repair of the PCL in patients with a femoral avulsion is effective in reducing postoperative instability and improving functional outcome.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Arthroscopy / methods*
  • Athletic Injuries / diagnostic imaging
  • Athletic Injuries / surgery
  • Female
  • Femur / diagnostic imaging
  • Femur / surgery
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Posterior Cruciate Ligament / diagnostic imaging
  • Posterior Cruciate Ligament / surgery*
  • Radiography
  • Range of Motion, Articular
  • Retrospective Studies