Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) Reconstruction
Severe PCL laxity, which results in a knee with significant posterior translation, is quite unsettling to the athlete. They complain of the shifting of the tibia with running. These patients benefit from a PCL reconstruction, which reestablishes stability to the knee. As noted in the treatment of ACL injuries, the ruptured ligament cannot be repaired. It must be reconstructed using a graft. This can be from the injuried patients own body or from a donor. The graft is attached through drill holes in the tibia and femur, using arthroscopic techniques, to reestablish the posterior cruciate attachment.
Recovery
This is an outpatient procedure allowing the patient to walk with crutches and a brace in their home. Return to sports is restricted for 10 to 12 months, allowing the knee to rebuild strength and function.
