Arthroscopic reconstruction of the posterior cruciate ligament with a quadruple hamstring tendon graft

Abstract

Background This study prospectively evaluated 21 patients treated consecutively to determine patient outcomes, efficacy, and possible complications of arthroscopically assisted posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) reconstruction performed with hamstring tendon grafts. Patients and methods Twenty-one patients (18 men and three women), each with an isolated PCL injury, underwent PCL reconstruction with a hamstring tendon autograft and were enrolled in this prospective study. The average age of the patients at the time of surgery was 26 years (range, 21-30 years). The average follow-up period was 21 months (range, 12-30 months). Patients underwent regular follow-up after clinical and radiographic preoperative and postoperative evaluation. Follow-up examinations included the International Knee Documentation Committee score, thigh muscle assessment, and radiographic evaluation. Results In the final International Knee Documentation Committee ratings, 85.7% of patients (18 of 21) were assessed as normal or near normal (grade A or B). A statistically significant improvement was observed in thigh girth difference, extensor strength ratio, and flexor strength ratio before and after reconstruction. Conclusion Analytical results showed satisfactory function after PCL reconstruction with the use of hamstring tendon autografts. We suggest that the hamstring tendon autograft is a safe, effective, and acceptable choice for PCL reconstruction, and that it affords good ligament reconstruction.