Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) Reconstruction
Overview
This surgical procedure replaces a damaged posterior cruciate ligament (PCL). The PCL is a band of tissue that connects the femur to the tibia inside the knee.
Preparation
The patient is positioned so that the front and back of the knee are clearly visible to the physician, and the knee is cleaned and sterilized. An IV with general anesthesia is administered.
Collecting the Autograft
An incision is made in the front of the knee and a section of the patellar ligament and tibia is removed. This section, called an autograft, will be used as a replacement for the damaged PCL. The incision is closed with sutures or surgical staples.
Accessing the Knee
Several small incisions are made in the back of the knee to allow the surgeon access to the knee joint. An arthroscopic camera and other tools are inserted. The camera allows the surgeon to view the procedure on a monitor.
Removing the PCL
The damaged PCL is carefully shaved away from the bone and removed.
Guide Pin Insertion
A pin is inserted diagonally from the tibia to the femur. The surgeon will use the pin as a guide to recreate the PCL.
Holes Drilled
Using the pin as a guide, the surgeon drills holes in the tibia and femur.
Autograft Attached
The autograft is attached to the guide pin, and pulled through the holes and into place. Surgical screws are inserted to hold the autograft in place.
End of Procedure
The incisions are closed with sutures or surgical staples. The knee is bandaged. Most patients will be able to go home the day of surgery.
