Arthroscopic Posterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Research Articles

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Due to their infrequency, injuries to the PCL are often overlooked. In addition to clinical examination, posterior stress X-rays are crucial in the diagnostic algorithm. The stress X-rays can also provide insight into the frequently associated posterolateral instabilities and the phenomenon of fixed posterior drawers. In severe posterior instabilities an arthroscopic PCL reconstruction using an autologous semitendinosus-gracilis graft is performed. In cases with associated posterolateral instabilities, we perform a posterolateral reconstruction using a modified Larson technique in the same setting. In chronic posterior instabilities and varus deformity, a high tibial osteotomy is performed. Posterior instabilities require specific diagnostic pathways, indications and surgical techniques. Therefore, this instability should only be treated by experienced surgeons at specialized centers.

Posterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with allogenic achilles tendon under arthroscopy in 19 cases

Objective To evaluate the method and its effect of posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) reconstruction with allogenic achilles tendon under arthroscopy.Methods We reviewed ninteen patients who were underwent arthroscopic PCL reconstruction using the allogenic achilles tendon from January 2004 to January 2008.A special technique was allowed for the standardized harvest of cylindrical calcaneus bone,ensuring adequate press-fit fixation within the femoral and tibial tunnels,and the function of the knee joint was assessed according to the Lysholm score.Results Ninteen patients were followed up.Before operation,the mean Lysholm score was 61 points (54～69 points).Twelve months later after operation,the score was 92 points (76～95 points).The excellent and good results were obtained in 89%.Conclusion Our study indicates that arthroscopic PCL reconstruction with allogenic achilles tendon can effectively improve the stability of the knee joint.It is important to achieve favorable result that the precise position is taken in the femoral and tibial tunnels in operation,and systematic rehabilitation training is performed after operation. Key words: Posterior cruciate ligament injuries; Arthroscopy methods; Tendons transplantation

Double-Bundle Posterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Using a Non-Hardware Suspension Fixation Technique and 8 Strands of Autogenous Hamstring Tendons

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the results of double-bundle posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) reconstruction using a non-hardware suspension fixation technique and 8 strands of autogenous hamstring tendons. Twenty-two cases of isolated chronic PCL rupture were reconstructed arthroscopically with 8 strands of autogenous hamstring tendons in a double-bundle and 4-tunnel manner. Quadruple-stranded semitendinosus tendon graft and quadruple-stranded gracilis tendon graft were used to reconstruct the anterolateral bundle and posteromedial bundle, respectively. The grafts were fixed by use of a non-hardware suspension fixation technique. Nineteen patients were followed up for a minimum of 2 years. Before surgery, 15 patients had a 2+ posterior drawer test (PDT) and 4 patients had a 3+ PDT. At a minimum of 2 years after surgery, 17 patients (89.5%) had a negative PDT, 1 patient (5.3%) had a 1+ PDT, and 1 patient (5.3%) had a 2+ PDT. The mean KT-1000 examination results (MEDmetric, San Diego, CA) changed from 9.4 +/- 1.8 mm preoperatively to 1.0 +/- 1.0 mm postoperatively (P < .001). The stress radiography results changed from 10.6 +/- 2.0 mm preoperatively to 2.0 +/- 1.2 mm postoperatively (P < .001). According to the International Knee Documentation Committee knee examination form, the results were graded as normal in 15 patients (78.9%), nearly normal in 3 patients (15.8%), and abnormal in 1 patient (5.3%). The International Knee Documentation Committee subjective results increased from 65.6 +/- 5.1 to 92.1 +/- 3.7 (P < .001), and the Lysholm score increased from 63.5 +/- 4.9 to 92.5 +/- 4.1 (P < .001). The Tegner score was 5.1 before surgery and 6.3 at the last follow-up on average. The results of this study showed that arthroscopic double-bundle PCL reconstruction by use of a non-hardware suspension suture fixation technique and 8 strands of autogenous hamstring tendons can yield normal results in 78.9% of patients and nearly normal results in 15.8% at a minimum of 2 years. Level IV, therapeutic case series.

Arthroscopic reconstruction of the posterior cruciate ligament using single-bundle bone-patella tendon-bone graft with moderate to long term follow-up

To evaluate the 4- to 10-year results of arthroscopic reconstruction of the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) using single-bundle bone-patella tendon-bone graft, and to find out the principle and influential factor of the isolated PCL reconstruction. From May 1998 to July 2004 the data of 29 patients with isolated PCL reconstruction retrospectively investigated, using single-bundle bone-patella tendon-bone graft. Twenty-two cases were followed up with average 7.1 years (5 - 10 years). Follow-up included the subjective knee function evaluation, KT2000, Biodex and the radiographic assessment. The mean final follow-up IKDC score, Lysholm score, and Tegner score of the 22 cases were 89.4 +/- 8.1, 94.5 +/- 9.2, and 6.9 +/- 2.6 respectively. There were statistically significant improvements in them when compared with preoperative data respectively (P < 0.01). The average posterior displacement measured with KT2000 was (4.9 +/- 1.1) mm (90 degrees flexion) and (4.3 +/- 1.2) mm (30 degrees flexion) respectively. At the final follow-up, KT2000 examination revealed >or= 6 mm of posterior laxity in 6 patients (group A), and <or= 5 mm posterior laxity in 16 patients (group A). A statistically significant improvement was noted in comparing the mean final follow-up IKDC score, Lysholm score, and Tegner score between the group A and B (P < 0.01). The average time from injury to surgery of group A and B was (17.6 +/- 3.9) months and (2.9 +/- 2.1) months respectively, the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.01). The data was received from the Biodex dynamometer for the 22 patients who were followed up in clinic service. Patients achieved (90 +/- 22)% (60 degrees /s) and (87 +/- 19)% (120 degrees /s) recovery of the extensor peak torque respectively, for the flexor peak torque patients achieved (93 +/- 16)% (60 degrees /s) and (92 +/- 20)% (120 degrees /s) respectively, the difference between the peak torque of extensor and flexor in the same condition was statistically significant (P < 0.01). X-ray findings: 8 of the 22 patients (36.4%) were assessed as mild grade change (3 case in medial compartment isolated, 1 case in patellofemoral joint isolated, and 4 case in both compartments) and 2 patients (9.1%) as moderate grading in final follow-up radiographs (in both anterior and medial compartments), and 12 of the 22 patients (54.5%) revealed normal X-ray findings. The average time from injury to surgery of patients who revealed joint degeneration and patients who revealed normal X-ray findings was (16.6 +/- 2.7) months and (3.3 +/- 1.7) months respectively, the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.01). Arthroscopic reconstruction of the posterior cruciate ligament using single-bundle bone-patella tendon-bone graft produces well results with moderate to long term follow-up. For the patients with III or IV PCL injury, PCL reconstruction should be done as soon as possible.

Double-bundle PCL reconstruction using tibial double cross-pin fixation

The purpose of this study was to assess the clinical results of arthroscopic double-bundle posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) reconstruction using double cross-pin fixation on the tibial side. Twenty-two patients who underwent PCL reconstruction using an Achilles tendon allograft with double cross-pins for tibial fixation were evaluated. There were 19 men and 3 women with mean age 36 years (range 18-59), and the average follow-up period was 33 months (range 24-60). Preoperative and postoperative knee functions were evaluated in all patients using Lysholm knee scores, the 2000 International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) grades, and Tegner activity scores. Median Lysholm knee scores were 64 (50-75) preoperatively and 88 (82-96), 89.9 +/- 6.5 postoperatively (P < 0.001). Median side-to-side differences, determined using Telos stress radiographs, were 11 mm (8-14) preoperatively, and 3 mm (1-7) at final follow-up visits (P < 0.01). According to KT-2000 arthrometer measurements, mean side-to-side differences were 11 mm (8-13) preoperatively and 3 mm (1-6, P < 0.01) at final follow-up visits (P < 0.01). Preoperatively the 2000 IKDC evaluation system rated all patients as abnormal or severely abnormal (C or D), and at final follow-up visits, 20 patients (88%) were rated as normal or nearly normal (A or B) and 2 patients (12%) were rated as abnormal (C). Median preinjury and preoperative Tegner scores were 7 (range 5-9) and 3 (range 2-5), respectively, and the mean postoperative Tegner score was 6 (range 3-9). There were no intraoperative or postoperative complications. Our study shows that arthroscopic double-bundle PCL reconstruction using an Achilles allograft with double cross-pins for tibial fixation provides satisfactory clinical results given a mean follow-up of 33 months. We believe that this method provides a reliable alternative technique of PCL reconstruction.

Simultaneous Arthroscopic Reconstruction of the Anterior and Posterior Cruciate Ligament Using Hamstring and Quadriceps Tendon Autografts

Most dislocated knees involved tears in the two cruciate ligaments were often accompanied by other collateral ligament complexes. Surgical repair or reconstruction seems to achieve results superior to conservative treatment. Various methods of reconstructing anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) after knee dislocation have been described, but few reports discuss simultaneous ACL and PCL reconstructions in a single operation. Eleven consecutive patients (6 males and 5 females) with both ACL and PCL disruptions were enrolled in the prospective study and treated with arthroscopic combined reconstruction of ACL and PCL using hamstring and quadriceps tendon autografts in a single operation. The average period from injury to operation was 76 days (range, 30-150 days), and the mean age was 33 years (range, 19-48 years) for those who underwent the operation. Mean follow-up time was 55 months (range, 36-78 months). Follow-up examinations included Lysholm knee score, Tegner activity score, International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score, thigh muscle assessment, and radiographic evaluation. Ten of 11 (91%) patients showed good or excellent results. Statistically significant improvements were observed in Lysholm score (p = 0.008), Tegner score (p = 0.038), postoperative KT-1000 scores (p = 0.001), final IKDC rating (p = 0.032), and thigh atrophy and muscle strength (p < 0.05). Regarding IKDC final rating, 82% (9 of 11) of the patients were assessed as normal or nearly normal (grade A or B). Simultaneous arthroscopically assisted reconstruction of both ACL and PCL using hamstring and quadriceps autografts can effectively and safely restore knee stability.

Functional outcomes of arthroscopic posterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: comparison of anteromedial and anterolateral trans-tibia approach

The hypothesis of this study is that anterolateral (A-L) trans-tibia approach is better than anteromedial (A-M) technique in posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) reconstruction. The purpose of this prospective clinical study was to compare the functional outcomes of A-M and A-L trans-tibia approach in arthroscopic PCL reconstruction. Between 1999 and 2003, 55 patients (55 knees) with an average age of 30 +/- 11 years (range 16-60 years) underwent arthroscopic single-bundle reconstruction for symptomatic isolated PCL tear. Patients were randomly divided into two groups with 28 patients (28 knees) undergoing A-M trans-tibia approach on odd-numbered days, and 27 patients (27 knees) with A-L trans-tibia approach on even-numbered days. Hamstring auto grafts were used in all cases. All patients received the same rehabilitation program postoperatively. The evaluation parameters included clinical assessment, functional outcome, ligament laxity and radiographic changes of the affected knee. Significant improvements in pain and function of the knee were observed at an average follow-up of 48 +/- 15.9 months for A-M and 45.0 +/- 13.7 months for A-L approach. However, the difference between the two techniques was statistically not significant. In IKDC for symptom-activity level, normal or nearly normal knees were noted in 68% of A-M and 67% of A-L approach, respectively, but no difference was noted between the two groups. In ligament laxity, approximately two-thirds of the knees showed normal posterior laxity with no difference between the two groups. Radiographs of the knee showed no discernible difference in the overall alignment and degenerative changes as well as the sizes of bone tunnel between the two groups. A-M and A-L trans-tibia arthroscopic PCL reconstructions produced comparable clinical results in short-term follow-up. Contrary to our initial hypothesis, the theoretical disadvantages of A-M technique including graft failure were not observed during the follow-up period. Long-term results are needed to confirm the adverse effects of A-M trans-tibia approach in PCL reconstruction.

Isolated posterior cruciate ligament injuries associated with closed tibial shaft fractures: a report of two cases

Knee ligament injuries associated with tibia shaft fractures are usually neglected and treatment is delayed. To our knowledge, no case presentation discusses the clinical result of closed tibial shaft fracture with concomitant ipsilateral isolated PCL injury. In this literature, we report the clinical result of two cases that sustained closed tibial shaft fracture with concomitant PCL injury and discuss the treatment options. We report the clinical result of two cases that sustained closed tibial shaft fracture with concomitant posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) injury. Case 1 received open reduction with plate fixation for the tibial shaft fracture, and he also received arthroscopic reconstruction of PCL with bone-patellar tendon-bone graft due to neglecting PCL injury 5 months later after fracture fixation. Case 2 sustained left tibial-fibular shaft fracture with isolated PCL injury confirmed by magnetic resonance image on the first day of injury. She received tibia fixation with intramedullary nail and conservative treatment with bracing and rehabilitation for PCL injury. In case 1, the male patient only focused on fracture healing without any knee rehabilitation. His knee flexed deeply for protected weight bearing in the injured leg which may have exacerbated the posterior instability and reduced the possibility of PCL healing. The end result of knee function was poor even though PCL reconstruction was done later. In case 2, the female patient with diagnosed posterior cruciate ligament injury on the day of injury, her knee was immobilized in brace with full extension, which improved PCL healing. In addition, she received rehabilitation of quadriceps strengthening, and hamstring muscle contraction was avoided in her daily activity. After rehabilitation, the female patient did not complain of severe subjective instability even with an obvious posterior translation on posterior drawer test. We need to perform a careful physical examination of ipsilateral knee in cases of leg fractures, and MRI of knee before surgery if any doubt exists. However, a further research is needed to conclude on the best operation and rehabilitation program in patients with combined tibial shaft fracture and PCL injury.

Sandwich-Style Posterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the results of a sandwich-style posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) reconstruction, namely double-bundle PCL reconstruction with 8 strands of hamstring tendons and remnant preservation. Eighteen cases of isolated chronic PCL rupture were reconstructed arthroscopically with 8 strands of autogenous hamstring tendons by way of 2-bundle and 4-tunnel reconstruction, as well as preservation of the remnant between the 2 reconstructed bundles. Quadruple-stranded semitendinosus tendon was used to reconstruct the anterolateral bundle, and quadruple-stranded gracilis tendon was used to reconstruct the posteromedial bundle. The grafts were fixed with a suspension technique by mini-plates and mini-buttons. The patients were followed up for a minimum of 2 years and evaluated according to the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC), Lysholm, and Tegner rating scales. At a minimum of 2 years after surgery, 17 patients (94.4%) had a negative posterior drawer test and 1 had a 1+ posterior drawer test. The mean KT-1000 examination results (MEDmetric, San Diego, CA) changed from 9.3 +/- 1.4 mm preoperatively to 0.7 +/- 0.9 mm postoperatively (P < .001). According to the IKDC knee examination form, the results were graded as normal in 16 patients (88.9%) and nearly normal in 2 (11.1%). The IKDC subjective results increased from 64.1 +/- 3.3 to 95.6 +/- 3.1 (P < .001), and the Lysholm score increased from 58.6 +/- 4.4 to 94.9 +/- 3.6 (P < .001). The mean Tegner score was 7.1 before injury, 5.6 before surgery, and 6.9 at the last follow-up. Arthroscopic sandwich-style PCL reconstruction can yield normal results in 88.9% of patients and nearly normal results in 11.1% at a minimum of 2 years.

Combined reconstruction of the injured posterior cruciate ligament and posterolateral complex of the knee

Objective To discuss the necessity and methods of combined reconstruction of the injured posterior cruciate ligament(PCL)and posterolateral complex(PLC)of the knee. Methods From January 2001 to December 2006,28 patients with injury of both PCL(≥Ⅱ°b)and PLC(＞Ⅱ°)of the knee were treated operatively in our department.Eight patients received arthroscopic PCL reconstruction with single bundle of 5-6 strands of hamstring and conservative treatment of PLC during January 2001 to December 2003.Twenty Datients received arthroscopic PCL reconstruction followed by open operative repair of PLC with median 1/3 femoral biceps tendon and gracilis during January 2002 to December 2006. Results All the patients were followed up for 6 to 24 months postoperatively (mean,15 months).By Lysholm scoring,3 cases obtained good results and 5 poor in the first group,while 19 excellent and 1 good in the second group.The mean Lysholm scores were 47.1±8.2 and 86.7±7.2 respectively(P＜0.05).According to IKDC scale,3 patients(37.5%)in the first group and 19 patients (95.0%)in the second group were graded normal or nearlv normal(t=19.277,P＜0.05). Conclusion Arthroseopic PCL reconstruction with single bundle of 5-6 strands of hamstring plus PLC reconstruction with 1/3 femoral biceps tendon and gracilis is more reliable to restore the stability of the knee than PCL reconstruction only. Key words: Knee; Posterior cruciate ligament; Injury; Reconstruction

Tibial Insertion of the Posterior Cruciate Ligament: A Sagittal Plane Analysis Using Gross, Histologic, and Radiographic Methods

The literature is imprecise regarding the ideal tibial site for the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) placement. We detail anatomic and radiographic landmarks for consistent placement of graft fixation in PCL reconstruction. Fourteen fresh-frozen cadaver knees were sectioned in the sagittal plane. The distance from the posterior cortex of the tibia to the anterior edge of the PCL was measured. Three specimens were fixed in 10% formalin and stained using hematoxylin-eosin and trichrome to determine ligament fiber distribution and insertion. Two knees were used for radiographic analysis of pin placement. The mean distance across the PCL facet from the posterior cortex to the anterior edge of the PCL was 15.6 mm (+/-1.1 mm). Histologic analysis in three knees showed that the PCL fibers inserting along the PCL facet comprise the bulk of the ligament, while the fibers that insert along the posterior cortex are less than 0.5 mm thick. The bulk of the PCL inserts in the posterior half of the PCL facet. We show that, in the sagittal plane, the center of the working fibers of the PCL lies 7 mm anterior to the posterior cortex of the tibia, measured along the PCL facet. Tunnel placement at the center of the original ligament can be measured along the PCL facet as seen in a true lateral radiographic view. This study provides anatomic and radiographic criteria helpful for guide-pin placement in arthroscopic PCL reconstruction.

Arthroscopic Posterior Cruciate Ligament Augmentation Using an Autogenous Hamstring Tendon Graft and the Posterior-Posterior Triangulation Technique

We describe a modification of the currently practiced arthroscopic posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) reconstruction techniques. We augmented the injured PCL with quadrupled autogenous hamstring tendon grafts using the arthroscopic posterior-posterior triangulation method and a single-incision transtibial approach. The tibial drill guide was introduced through the anteromedial portal and positioned onto the fossa for the PCL on the tibia under arthroscopic guidance from the posterolateral portal. The femoral tunnel was made 10 mm posterior to the articular cartilage of the medial femoral condyle by use of the anterior cruciate ligament Beath pin (Arthrex, Naples, FL) introduced through the far-inferior anterolateral portal. The tendon graft was positioned in the knee joint by use of the tibial and femoral double-folded silk loops that traversed the bony tunnels. The graft was fixed by use of bioabsorbable Intrafix screw systems (DePuy Mitek, Raynham, MA) at both the ends. The arthroscopic posterior-posterior triangulation method provides adequate exposure of the posterior knee compartment; this allows for convenient instrumentation and safe and accurate placement of the bony tunnels with preservation of the PCL remnants. We believe that retention of the remnant PCL fibers is biologic and contributes to earlier healing and strengthening of the tendon graft.

Arthroscopic PCL reconstruction with an implant fixation of hamstring tendon knot and bottle-neck technique

Objective To evaluate arthroscopic PCL （posterior cruciate ligament） reconstruction with an implant fixation of hamstring tendon knot and bottle-neck technique. Methods Thirteen cases with PCL injury were treated with arthroscopic PCL reconstruction with an implant fixation of hamstring tendon knot and bottle-neck technique between April, 2002 to June, 2005. The patients were followed up for at least seven months to evaluate the clinical effects by means of ROM of the joint, post drawer test, Lachman test, Lysholm and IKDC （International Knee Documents Committee） scores. Results The patients were followed up for an average of 13.4 months. No limitation of knee extension was found six months after operation. Eleven patients had normal knee flexion（〉 140°）, one had knee flexion of 120° and one 100°. In posterior drawer test, 11 patients were grade Ⅰ and two grade Ⅱ. In Lachman test, 11 patients were rated as within grade Ⅰ and two grade Ⅱ. By Lysholm knee function scale, the average knee scores were 90. 47 ± 4.13 and 78.82 ± 2.46 respectively before and after operation, and the difference was of statistical significance （ t = 2. 416, P = 0. 029）. By IKDC scale, six were grade A, five grade B and one grade C. Conclusion Arthroscopic PCL reconstruction with an implant fixation of hamstring tendon knot and bottle-neck technique is a reliable method to restore knee function and will have a prospect of wide application because of its good tissue biocompatibility, less invasion, and less operative expenditure. Key words: PCL （posterior cruciate ligament） ; Reconstruction ; Hamstring tendon ; Bottle-neck technique

Posterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction With a Single-Sling Technique Using a Tibialis Anterior Tendon Allograft

Reconstruction of the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) has been performed in various ways. Recent biomechanical tests revealed that a double-bundle graft with a 2-tunnel technique is more likely to restore normal knee stability throughout the full range of knee motion. Several techniques using double-bundle grafts have been implemented for PCL reconstruction; however, each technique has its own advantages and disadvantages. To provide a simplified surgical technique and minimize its inherent complications, the purpose of this study was to introduce a novel technique of arthroscopic PCL reconstruction using an allogeneic tibialis anterior tendon and forming a single sling.

Arthroscopic posterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with hamstring tendon autograft: results with a minimum 4-year follow-up

This study prospectively evaluates the outcomes at a minimum 4-year follow-up after PCL reconstruction using quadruple hamstring tendon autograft with an arthroscopic double fixation technique. During 1996-1999, hamstring tendon autograft graft has been used in 57 patients. Data from 52 patients who had been followed up completely were analyzed. All patients suffered from a grade 3 or higher grade of posterior drawer test and posterior sag sign with MRI image confirmation. Twelve knees had combined posterior and posterolateral instability, which were simultaneously reconstructed. Clinical assessments included Lysholm knee score, International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) scores, KT-1000 instrumented test, thigh muscle assessment, and radiographic evaluation. The mean Lysholm score was 54 (40-65) and 91 (65-100) points (P<0.01) before and after surgery. Thirty (58%) patients could return to moderate or strenuous activity. The evaluation of AP translation has been performed with KT-1000. The average posterior displacement measured with KT-1000 was 11.69+/-2.01 mm preoperatively and 3.45+/-2.04 mm postoperatively. Forty-two (81%) patients demonstrated ligament laxity of less than 5 mm. Forty-two (81%) patients were rated as normal or nearly normal based on IKDC scores. Forty-six (88%) patients achieved a minimum of 80% recovery of extensor strength and 44 (85%) patients achieved a minimum of 80% recovery of flexor strength. Statistically significant differences existed in thigh girth, extensor strength, and flexor strength before and after reconstruction. Arthroscopic reconstruction for PCL with four-strand hamstring tendon graft produced satisfactory results. The semitendinosus and gracilis tendon graft is adequate in graft size, technically easier to perform and more reproducible, and had a satisfactory result.

Popliteal Artery Laceration During Arthroscopic Posterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

Abstract We report a case of acute laceration of the popliteal artery during an arthroscopic posterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. This injury can occur during the creation of the posteromedial portal, the manipulation of the tissues in the posterior part of the capsule of the knee joint, or when drilling the tibial hole. We recommend that a qualified vascular surgeon should be immediately available at the time of the surgery. In case of suspecting the occurrence of a popliteal artery injury, the vascular surgeon should be immediately consulted and arteriography and vascular repair should be performed.

Arthroscopic Reconstruction of the Posterior Cruciate Ligament Using Tibial-Inlay and Double-Bundle Technique

Biomechanical research has suggested that the double-bundle and tibial inlay technique is superior to the single-bundle and the transtibial tunnel method for posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) reconstruction. A combination the posterior tibial inlay and femoral double-bundle technique is thought to be an ideal method for PCL reconstruction. Recently, we successfully performed arthroscopic PCL reconstruction using the tibial-inlay and double-bundle technique. Achilles tendon–bone allograft is used and the bone plug for the arthroscopic tibial inlay fixation is designed in a cylindrical shape and perpendicular to the fiber texture of the Achilles tendon. Achilles tendon is manually split into deep and superficial layers to reconstruct anterolateral and posteromedial bundles as the natural insertion of PCL. The intra-articular lengths of each bundle between tibial tunnel and 2 femoral tunnels are measured to achieve fixation of the graft to the original PCL attachment. After tibial bone plug fixation with an absorbable interference screw and additional suture anchoring, the anterolateral bundle is fixed in a reduction position with the knee in 90° of flexion and the posteromedial bundle is fixed nearly in extension. This procedure makes it possible not only to reproduce the original concept of PCL tibial inlay graft arthroscopically without posterior arthrotomy, but also to achieve a more anatomic PCL reconstruction of the 2 bundles.

Clinical Outcomes After Isolated Arthroscopic Single-Bundle Posterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical outcomes after arthroscopic single-bundle posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) reconstruction in patients with isolated grade III PCL injuries. Retrospective review. Twenty-one patients who underwent an isolated arthroscopic single-bundle PCL reconstruction for the treatment of a grade III PCL injury between 1989 and 1998 were included in the study. There were 15 male and 6 female patients with an average age of 38 years (range, 20 to 62 years). The length of follow-up was 5.9 years (range, 2.6 to 11 years), and the average time from injury to surgery was 4.5 years (median, 1.3 years; range, 2 weeks to 25 years). All patients completed a subjective evaluation and 14 patients returned for a physical examination and radiographs. One patient underwent an acute reconstruction (<3 weeks), 4 had a subacute (<3 months), and 16 underwent a chronic (>3 months) reconstruction. The anterolateral bundle of the PCL was reconstructed using an Achilles tendon allograft passed through femoral and tibial bone tunnels. The overall average Activities of Daily Living Scale (ADLS), Sports Activities Scale (SAS), and SF-36 scores were 79.3, 71.6, and 98 points, respectively. There was a significant difference identified when the ADLS (91.3 v 75.6) and the SAS (90.4 v 65.8) scores of the subacute/acute group were compared with those of the chronic reconstruction group. Using the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) subjective assessment, 57% of the patients had normal/near normal knee function, and 62% had a normal/near normal activity level. The average extension and flexion losses were 1 degrees and 5 degrees , respectively. Instrumented laxity examination revealed that 62% had less than a 3-mm and 31% had a 3- to 5-mm side-to-side difference in corrected posterior displacement. Radiographs at follow-up showed that 75% had normal/near normal findings according to IKDC guidelines. The clinical outcomes after arthroscopic single-bundle PCL reconstruction in this study produced a satisfactory return of function and improvement in symptoms. All patients in this study had improved laxity of at least 1 grade. When compared with chronic reconstructions, acute reconstructions had statistically significant better ADLS and SAS scores. IV, case series.

Posterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: Double-Loop Hamstring Tendon Autograft Versus Achilles Tendon Allograft—Clinical Results of a Minimum 2-Year Follow-up

The purpose of this study was to compare clinical results of arthroscopic posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) reconstructions using double-loop hamstring tendon autograft and Achilles tendon allograft while preserving the original PCL remnant. Case-control study of results of treatment. From September 1997 to December 2000, 36 patients who received only PCL reconstruction were reviewed retrospectively. Of these, 18 patients received autogenous double-loop hamstring tendon reconstruction (group I) and 18 received Achilles tendon allograft reconstruction (group II). The same PCL reconstruction procedure was performed in both groups. At final follow-up at a minimum of 2 years, patients were evaluated by 4 measures: the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) evaluation, Lysholm knee scores, the posterior draw test, and Telos stress radiography. Between the 2 groups, preoperative demographic factors (age, gender, activity level, and mean duration to surgery) showed no statistically significant difference (P > .05). According to IKDC evaluation of group I, 16 of the 18 knees rated normal or nearly normal, whereas 2 fell into the abnormal category. By the same criteria, 14 of the 18 knees in group II were normal to nearly normal, 3 were abnormal, and 1 was severely abnormal. IKDC scores showed no statistical difference between the 2 groups (P = .98). Postoperative mean Lysholm knee scores were 90 points (range, 78-100) for group I and 85 (range, 70-95) for group II; improvements of 22 and 17 points, respectively. According to the Lysholm knee scores, group I showed slightly better results than did group II, with a statistical significance of P < .01. Telos stress radiography showed the mean difference in posterior translation between the injured and uninjured knees to be 2.2 mm (range, 0 to 7.0 mm) for group I and 2.9 mm (range, 1.0 to 7.0 mm) for group II. The Telos stress test showed no statistical difference between the 2 groups (P = .14). The clinical outcome was the same for both groups. Despite its comparatively short length and small diameter, the double-loop hamstring tendon autograft was as good as Achilles tendon allograft in PCL reconstruction. Level III, case-control study.

The Clinical Results of Posterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: Preservation of Remnant Posterior Cruciate Ligament

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to provide the clinical results of arthroscopic posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) reconstruction with preservation of the original ligament with use of a posterior trans-septal portal and to compare the clinical outcomes between double-loop hamstring tendon autografts and Achilles tendon allografts. Materials and Methods: 36 patients underwent PCL reconstruction with hamstring tendon autografts and with Achilles tendon allografts. At the final follow-up, patients were evaluated by four measurements: Lysholm knee scores, Telos stress radiography, IKDC grade, and second look arthroscopic examination. Results: The postoperative mean Lysholm knee scores, the postoperative mean distances of posterior displacement by the Telos stress test, and the postoperative IKDC grades demonstrated statistically significant differences compared to the preoperative. The postoperative mean distances of posterior displacement by the Telos stress test and the postoperative IKDC grades demonstrated no statistically significant difference between two groups. Conclusion: The clinical results of arthroscopic PCL reconstruction with preservation of the original remnant ligament with use of a posterior trans-septal portal were good. The clinical outcomes of double-loop hamstring tendon autografts were equivalent to those of the Achilles tendon allograft.