Most PCL reconstruction is performed using knee arthroscopy. In this minimally invasive procedure, the surgeon makes several small incisions around the knee joint and inserts a narrow fiber optic scope (called an arthroscope) to examine the condition of the knee. Tiny instruments are used to remove the damaged ligament and replace it with a graft. Tunnels are drilled into your femur (thighbone) and tibia (shinbone) to accurately position the graft, which is then anchored with screws or other fixation devices.
PCL reconstruction surgery uses an autograft (tissue from your body) or an allograft (tissue from a cadaver) to replace the ligament. The autograft method is typically most successful in patients who want to return to a high-demand, athletic lifestyle. As patients get older, and demands diminish, the success of the allograft procedure increases. Ultimately, it depends on the unique needs of each individual. Different techniques work best in different situations.
Anatomy
The PCL is one of the four major ligaments of the knee. It runs diagonally in the middle of the knee and connects the back of the femur (thighbone) to the front of the tibia (shinbone). Along with the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), the PCL controls the knee’s back-and-forth motion. The PCL is larger and stronger than the ACL, and is injured less often. Many times, a PCL injury occurs with injuries to other structures in the knee such as cartilage, ligaments and bone.
When is surgery recommended?
Treatment of a PCL tear depends on the severity of the injury. Not all PCL tears require surgery.
Initial treatment focuses on pain control, restoring range of motion and preventing further injury. It is important to regain motion in the knee as soon as possible to aid in recovery.
The decision for operative or non-operative treatment depends on several factors including a patient’s age, activity level, symptoms and expectations. For older, sedentary patients with a relatively stable knee and little desire to return to high-level sports or fitness routines, non-operative rehabilitation and activity modification may be sufficient. For active patients of almost all ages – especially young athletes – reconstruction of a PCL tear is highly recommended. Stable knees are critical for safely returning to sports and preventing re-injury or additional injury. PCL reconstruction can also minimize the chance of knee arthritis or instability later in life.
What is the recovery time?
Return to daily and sports activities varies depending on the surgery and your surgeon. An appropriate physical therapy program to regain knee strength and range of motion is considered critical for the success of PCL reconstruction. Usually, return to work is restricted for several weeks to months, depending on the type of job you do. Return to sporting activity is typically restricted for at least six months.