Posterolateral corner knee injuries: a narrative review

Area of Science:

• Orthopaedic Surgery
• Knee Anatomy and Biomechanics

Background:

• The posterolateral corner (PLC) of the knee was historically poorly understood, leading to suboptimal outcomes.
• Recent research has significantly advanced the understanding of PLC anatomy and function.
• Anatomic reconstructions have improved patient outcomes for PLC injuries.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current literature on the diagnosis and treatment of posterolateral corner knee injuries.
• To highlight the progress in understanding PLC anatomy and biomechanics.
• To discuss the challenges and future directions in PLC reconstruction.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature review of orthopaedic articles on PLC injuries.
• Analysis of anatomical, biomechanical, and clinical studies.
• Evaluation of current reconstruction techniques.

Main Results:

• Despite improved knowledge, a standardized diagnostic and treatment algorithm for PLC injuries is still lacking.
• No single reconstruction technique has emerged as superior.
• Balancing native anatomy replication with safe surgical execution remains a challenge.

Conclusions:

• Treatment for PLC injuries should be individualized based on patient-specific factors.
• Continued research is needed to refine diagnostic and surgical approaches.
• Progress in understanding PLC injuries offers hope for better patient management.