Diagnosis Of Posterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries Research Articles

Ultrasonographic diagnosis of the posterior cruciate ligament injury in a 4-year-old child: a case report

Posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) injury is a rare condition in children. We report a 4-year-old child with an isolated rupture of PCL in which diagnosis is made by ultrasonography (US). Magnetic resonance imaging is highly sensitive and specific in the diagnosis of PCL injuries and provides useful information about other potentially injured structures, but PCL can also be evaluated sonographically. Findings that should be looked for include enlargement or focal disruption of the ligament by comparison with the contralateral normal PCL. US may be a useful examination tool in children with a suspected PCL injury.

Evaluation and management of the posterior cruciate injured knee

Diagnosis and treatment of the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) injured knee have evolved significantly over the past 15 years. With improved understanding from biomechanical data, anatomy, and imaging, diagnosis of PCL injuries is easier. Diagnoses can often be made on physical examination alone. However, imaging studies, such as radiographs and magnetic resonance imaging, are invaluable in assessing the PCL and associated injuries that may affect treatment and outcome. In general, grade I and II and some grade III isolated PCL injuries do well with nonsurgical treatment. Indications for surgery are becoming standard, although some controversy still exists. Experts still do not agree on the preferred method of reconstruction. Debate continues regarding single- and double-bundle techniques, as well as “inlay” techniques. No publication to date has definitively determined which reconstructive technique provides the best results. This article reviews the current diagnostic techniques, discusses nonsurgical and surgical indications, and presents current available techniques for treating the PCL injured knee.