Complications Associated with Posterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction and Avoiding Them

J Knee Surg. 2021 May;34(6):587-591. doi: 10.1055/s-0041-1723016. Epub 2021 Feb 5.

Abstract

Posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) injuries often occur as part of a multiligament injury pattern and can present a significant challenge to the treating surgeon. When PCL reconstruction is indicated, complications can arise in the intraoperative and postoperative period that lead to poor outcomes. These complications include neurovascular injury, fracture, compartment syndrome, persistent posterior laxity, motion loss, residual knee pain, osteonecrosis, and heterotopic ossification. The purpose of this review is to highlight complications associated with PCL reconstruction and strategies to avoid them.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Knee / surgery
  • Knee Injuries / surgery*
  • Knee Joint / surgery
  • Posterior Cruciate Ligament / injuries
  • Posterior Cruciate Ligament / surgery
  • Posterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction / adverse effects*
  • Posterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction / methods*
  • Postoperative Period