Arthroscopic Reduction and Fixation with Fiber Wire Suture Tape for PCL Avulsion Fractures

The internal and external rotation over 90° of flexion is restricted by posterior cruciate ligament (PCL). PCL also restricts posterior translation of tibia at all angles of flexion. The purpose of this study was to compare preoperative and postoperative functional outcomes (Lysholm scores and IKDC scores) in patients with PCL avulsion injuries managed with fixation by fiber wire suture tape.

This was a prospective cohort study. The study group included 20 patients with PCL avulsion injuries with a mean age of 49.5 years (12 males and 8 females). All patients underwent treatment with high-strength 2-0 fiber tape tied around the PCL tibial insertion under arthroscopy for reduction and fixation.

There was increase in Lysholm score of 20 follow-up patients, from preoperative 36.9 ± 3.9 to a postoperative score of 96.1 ± 3.5. An increase in IKDC scores to 95.4 ± 3.1 from 52.9 ± 9.2 was also seen. Significant differences were found between preoperative and postoperative values. 19 patients regained function and one patient required manipulation under anesthesia. Satisfactory reduction was showed in X-ray and 3D CT scan for all 20 patients.

If the PCL avulsion fracture injury is not identified and adequately treated, it can cause serious morbidity. Although newer studies demonstrate equivalent functional outcomes with arthroscopic treatment, open reduction with internal fixation (ORIF) with Cortico-Cancellous (CC) screw fixation is still a common treatment option. Improve postoperative functional outcome with minimal complications, author recommends PCL avulsion fracture fixation with arthroscopic fiber wire suture tape.