PCL Reconstruction
What Is It?
Arthroscopic PCL reconstruction is a minimally invasive surgery to repair a torn Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) in the knee. The PCL is one of the four major ligaments that stabilize the knee, preventing the shinbone from moving too far backward. When it tears, patients often experience pain, swelling, and difficulty with knee stability, especially during walking, running, or climbing stairs.
Why Is It Needed?
You may need PCL reconstruction if:
- You have a complete PCL tear that causes instability.
- You experience repeated episodes of the knee “giving way.”
- You want to return to sports or physically demanding activities.
- Non-surgical treatments (like bracing and physiotherapy) have not restored stability.
- The injury is combined with other ligament or meniscus damage.
The Procedure Step-by-Step
- Evaluation – Imaging (MRI, X-rays) and physical exams confirm the PCL tear.
- Arthroscopy – A small camera is inserted into the knee to visualize the joint.
- Graft selection – The torn PCL is replaced with a graft, usually taken from your hamstring, patellar tendon, quadriceps tendon, or sometimes donor tissue.
- Tunnel creation – Small tunnels are drilled in the thighbone (femur) and shinbone (tibia) to anchor the graft.
- Fixation – The graft is secured with screws or fixation devices.
- Closure – Incisions are closed, and the knee is bandaged.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
- Hospital stay: Usually same-day or overnight.
- Rehabilitation: Physiotherapy begins soon after surgery to restore movement, strength, and stability.
- Return to sports: Most patients return to sports within 9–12 months, depending on healing and rehab progress.
- Outcome: With proper rehab, patients regain stability and can return to active lifestyles.
Benefits
- Minimally invasive with smaller incisions.
- Less pain and faster recovery compared to open surgery.
- Restores knee stability and function.
- • Enables return to sports and daily activities.
Risks & Considerations
- Infection, stiffness, or graft failure (rare).
- Rehabilitation is crucial—without it, recovery may be incomplete.
- Recovery may take longer than ACL surgery due to the PCL’s anatomy and healing demands.
Key Message for Patients
Arthroscopic PCL reconstruction is a safe and effective way to restore knee stability after a PCL tear. With modern techniques, smaller incisions, and structured rehabilitation, most patients return to sports and active lifestyles with confidence.
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