Current concepts review: the posterior cruciate ligament.

Abstract

Injuries to the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) and methods of treatment of the injured PCL have historically been surrounded by controversy in the orthopedic community. The infrequent occurrence of PCL injuries and PCL-based, multiple ligament knee injuries has led to limitations in clinical studies and a subsequent lag in basic science and clinical research compared with that for other ligamentous injuries. In recent years, new studies have elucidated the biomechanical function and complex anatomy of the PCL leading to an increased interest in research, understanding, and treatment of these complex injuries. In addition to improved understanding of knee ligament structure and biomechanics, technical advancements in allograft tissue, surgical instrumentation, and graft tensioning and fixation methods and improved surgical techniques and postoperative rehabilitation methods have enhanced the results in PCL reconstruction and PCL-based, multiple ligament knee surgical outcomes.