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A historical perspective of PCL bracing
Kyle S Jansson1, Kerry E Costello, Luke O'Brien
1Department of BioMedical Engineering, Steadman Philippon Research Institute, Vail, CO, USA.
Summary
Current posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) knee braces show some patient benefits but lack biomechanical validation. Further research is needed to develop PCL braces that provide validated stability and proper force distribution for improved outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic biomechanics
- Sports medicine
- Rehabilitation engineering
Background:
- Limited availability of functional knee braces specifically designed for posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) injuries.
- Absence of biomechanical validation for existing PCL braces, questioning their efficacy in providing stability and appropriate force distribution to PCL-deficient knees.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the historical development and current status of posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) knee bracing.
- To identify research gaps and areas for advancement in PCL brace technology to enhance patient outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature search of PubMed using keywords: "posterior cruciate ligament", "rehabilitation", "history", "knee", and "brace" (1967-2011).
- Analysis of relevant articles and review of currently available PCL knee bracing options.
Main Results:
- Limited evidence supports the biomechanical effectiveness of current nonoperative and postoperative PCL bracing protocols.
- Clinical reports indicate PCL braces can reduce laxity with anterior tibial forces during PCL tear healing.
- While one brace shows clinical validation for stability, most PCL braces lack robust biomechanical evidence of effectiveness during knee flexion, where PCL forces vary.
Conclusions:
- Insufficient data exists on the specific efficacy of posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) knee braces.
- Ideal PCL braces require biomechanically validated, angle-dependent force application and activity-specific adjustability.
- No current PCL braces meet these biomechanical requirements for optimal treatment.
