ABSTRACT
Objective To evaluate the skill and outcome of arthroscopic reconstruction of posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) with retention of PCL remnant. Methods From April 2004 to June 2006, 38 patients (38 knees) with PCL deficiency were verified by clinical and arthroscopic examinations. Of them, there were 9 knees combined with disruption of the posterolateral comer, 6 with rupture of the posteromedial corner, 8 with lateral meniscus tear and 4 with medial meniscus tear. With reservation of PCL remnant and synovium, all the impaired PCLs were reconstructed with single bundle of autogenous quadrupled hamstring tendons under arthroscopy. Interference screws were used for direct anatomic fixation of the reconstructed ligament. Results No severe comphcations occurred at early stage after operation in all 38 patients who were followed up for 12-37 months (average 20.79 months). Lysholm score was improved significandy from 40-70 points (mean 51.32 pints) before operation to 70-100 pints (mean 92.37 points) at the latest follow up (t=-30.14, P<0.01). According to International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score, there was a remarkable improvement from 16 abnormal knees (grade C) and 22 severely abnormal knees (grade D) preoperatively to 18 normal knees ( grade A), 18 nearly normal knees (grade B) and 2 abnormal knees at the latest follow up (Z=-6.00, P <0.01). Of 38 patients, 36 returned to normal sports level but 2 degraded level of sports. Conclusions Arthroscopic PCL reconstruction with retention of PCL remnants is a feasible technique, with satisfactory outcome. Preservation of PCL remnants and synovium may be beneficial to biological incorporation and reinnervation of the reconstructed ligament.