Double Posterior Cruciate Ligament Sign

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Radiology
• Sports Medicine

Background:

• Persistent medial knee pain and mechanical symptoms can indicate meniscal injuries.
• Displaced bucket-handle tears of the meniscus present diagnostic challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the diagnostic utility of the double posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) sign in Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI).
• To correlate radiologic findings with arthroscopic verification for displaced bucket-handle meniscal tears.
• To illustrate the clinical implications of delayed diagnosis and treatment.

Main Methods:

• Case presentation of a 34-year-old male with persistent knee symptoms post-injury.
• MRI analysis revealing the double PCL sign indicative of a displaced medial meniscus tear.
• Arthroscopic confirmation and subsequent partial meniscectomy.

Main Results:

• The double PCL sign accurately identified a displaced bucket-handle tear of the medial meniscus.
• Arthroscopy confirmed the MRI findings.
• The patient achieved full recovery and return to athletic activity after partial meniscectomy and rehabilitation.

Conclusions:

• The double PCL sign is a specific MRI finding for displaced bucket-handle meniscal tears, facilitating prompt diagnosis.
• Early diagnosis and appropriate management are crucial for optimal patient outcomes.
• This case serves as an educational example of a classic imaging sign and its clinical significance.