Amir Reza Kachooei, MD; Shiva Razi, MD; Reza Mahdavian Naghashzargar, MD; Hadi Makhmalbaf, MD
Abstract
Background: Posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) injury is reported in 3% to 23% of knee injuries. Ligament rupture usually requires reconstructive surgery. Avulsion injuries in acute cases, however, are often treated by fixation of avulsed bone and ligament. Fixation of avulsions in chronic cases is somewhat ...
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Background: Posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) injury is reported in 3% to 23% of knee injuries. Ligament rupture usually requires reconstructive surgery. Avulsion injuries in acute cases, however, are often treated by fixation of avulsed bone and ligament. Fixation of avulsions in chronic cases is somewhat controversial.Methods: In a descriptive study, from 40 male patients with mean age of 27.87 years old who had undergone fixation of PCL avulsion with maleolar screw and washer through a posteromedial approach, 20 cases with a mean of 40±16.02 weeks follow-up were studied. Twelve cases had received early fixation and 8 had fixation 8 weeks or longer after the injury. The cases were evaluated with clinical evaluation of stability as well as assessment of patients’ satisfaction and return to sports or regular activities.Results: Improvement in “posterior drawer test” was observed in all the cases. The ones who had early surgery, as well as the ones with isolated PCL injury had better results in comparison with late avulsion fixation or combined ligament injuries. Eight cases had no problem in knee function, 7 cases had some limitation in sporting, and 5 in some regular daily activities. Conclusion: Screw fixation of PCL avulsion through a posterio-medial approach, even in delayed cases, is safe, easy and effective. Associated other knee injuries are detrimental for good results.
