Anatomic Double Bundle Posterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Using an Internal Splint

Four-Tunnel Double-Bundle Posterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction With Remnant Preservation

The clinical results of posterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (PCL) still leave much room for improvement. To get better knee stability, the double-bundle reconstruction, the use of strong grafts, and the preservation of the remnant have been applied. However, the combination of the 3 measures has seldom been reported. Thus I introduce a 4-tunnel double-bundle PCL reconstruction technique, in which I combine the use of strong grafts and preservation of the remnant. The critical point of this technique is manipulating skillfully across the femoral notch with the preservation, as well as the hindrance to operation of the PCL remnant. My clinical experience indicates this technique is somewhat complicated but most effective. I believe the introduction of this technique will provide an additional choice when PCL reconstruction is to be performed.

Four-Tunnel Double-Bundle Anatomical Posterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Without Remnant Preservation

Double-bundle posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) reconstruction has long been attempted to obtain better clinical results than single-bundle PCL reconstruction. In most previous reports regarding double-bundle PCL reconstruction, one tibial tunnel and various kinds of grafts were used. We introduce a two-tibial tunnel, double-bundle PCL reconstruction technique with ultra-strong grafts. The critical points of this technique are proper creation of the tibial tunnels and the protection of the posterior neurovascular structures. Our clinical experience indicates this technique can lead to satisfactory stable outcomes. We believe that this technique will provide a reasonable choice for PCL reconstruction without remnant preservation.

Editorial Commentary: The Posterior Cruciate Ligament Posteromedial Bundle Is Small but Vital to Posterior Cruciate Ligament Biomechanics: Don't Ignore the Underdog

Posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) reconstruction leads to outcomes less favorable than those of anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. In recent years, we have seen a surge of publications regarding PCL anatomy, isometry, and reconstruction techniques. PCL reconstruction has been revolutionized with lessons learned from analysis of PCL behavior, such as the distinct role of the posteromedial bundle (PMB) in the biomechanics of the knee at different flexion angles, as well as its co-dominant role with its counterpart, the anterolateral bundle. With the knee in extension, the PMB serves to restrict posterior translation, whereas in knee flexion, the PMB restricts internal rotation. It is rather too early to know whether the biomechanical advantage of double-bundle reconstruction will result in better clinical outcomes in the long term; however, the increased interest and the refinement of both single- and double-bundle reconstruction techniques will certainly advance our knowledge, ultimately translating into better patient outcomes.