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Posterior cruciate ligament injuries
M D Miller1, D L Johnson, C D Harner
1Department of Orthopaedics, University of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
Orthopaedic Review
|November 1, 1993
Summary
Posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) injuries are more common than previously thought. Anatomical reconstructions offer good clinical results for PCL tears, prompting further research into this "forgotten" ligament.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Sports Medicine
- Biomechanics
Background:
- Posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) injuries are increasingly recognized.
- The functional anatomy and biomechanics of the PCL are better understood.
- The natural history of isolated PCL tears is being questioned.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current knowledge on PCL injuries.
- To highlight advancements in diagnosis and treatment.
- To stimulate further research on the posterior cruciate ligament.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent clinical and basic science studies.
- Discussion of diagnostic techniques, including magnetic resonance imaging and the posterior drawer test.
- Evaluation of treatment options, focusing on anatomical reconstructions.
Main Results:
- Anatomical reconstructions for PCL injuries yield consistently good clinical results.
- Magnetic resonance imaging aids in PCL tear identification.
- The posterior drawer test is the gold standard for diagnosis.
Conclusions:
- PCL injuries require more attention.
- Anatomical reconstruction is a successful treatment strategy.
- Further research is warranted to fully understand PCL injuries and optimize management.