PCL Reconstruction in Multi-ligament Injured Knees: state of the art

Anna Kropelnicki, Brett A Fritsch

Volume 5 | Issue 1 | Jan – April 2020 | Page 20-26

Author: Anna Kropelnicki [1], Brett A Fritsch [1]

[1] Sydney Orthopaedic Research Institute, Level 1, The Gallery, 445 Victoria Ave., Chatswood, NSW 2067, Australia.

Address of Correspondence
Dr. Anna Kropelnicki
SORI, Level 1, The Gallery, 445 Victoria Ave, Chatswood, NSW 2067, Australia
Email: anna@krop.co.uk

Abstract

Significant injury to the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) is an uncommon injury in isolation, but frequently occurs in the context of the multi-ligament injury of the knee. A multi-ligament knee injury (MLKI) is commonly defined as rupture of at least two of the four major ligament complexes with resultant coronal and sagittal plane instability [1], [2]. This review discusses the optimal approach to treating the PCL in the context of these injuries. While there is an overall paucity of high-quality evidence, recommendations can be made regarding the necessity for surgical intervention, and that best results appear to be a result of early (less than six weeks) surgery performed as a single reconstruction of all structures in an anatomical manner, including the PCL. In terms of the PCL, a double-bundle anatomic reconstruction is biomechanically preferential, but of little proven clinical benefit and may not always be possible. There is insufficient evidence in the MKLI to discern outcomes between autograft and allograft. The use of synthetic grafts is controversial, and should be avoided until longer-term data is available. Novel strategies such as internal bracing show some promise, but similarly lack clinical data at this stage. Overall, good outcomes can be obtained following this complex and potentially devastating injury, but further research and co-operation across treatment centres is needed to gain sufficient power to draw solid conclusions about the best way to treat the ruptured PCL in the MLKI.

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