Concurrent Needle and Standard Arthroscopy for Posterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

Abstract

Arthroscopic posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) reconstruction is a technically demanding procedure, particularly with respect to tibial footprint debridement and tibial tunnel placement, where iatrogenic damage to anatomic structures is a well reported complication and incorrect tunnel placement can have functional implications. Preparation of the tibial component often involves switching between 30° and 70° arthroscopes and frequent portal swapping and reorientation, which can be inefficient and time-consuming. As the technology and picture resolution of needle arthroscopy has improved, its clinical application has widened. This manuscript describes the use of needle arthroscopy-assisted arthroscopic PCL reconstruction for optimal visualization of the PCL tibial footprint using an accessory posterolateral portal, while obviating the need of both 30° and 70° arthroscopes.