Results of Old Posterior Crutiate Ligament (PCL) Avulsion Fixation of Knee in St. Al-zahra Hospital

BACKGROUND:
Many references recommend reconstruction surgical method, for treatment of old posterior crutiate ligament avulsion (PCL), in spite of its adverse side effects, difficult surgical procedure and poor long term results. This study was conducted for the first time designed to determine the results of the treatment of the old PCL avulsion by open reduction and fixation.

METHODS:
We tried to determine the efficacy of old PCL avulsion fixation, during a clinical trial with non-randomized sampling, on 15 patients. All patients had giving way instability, pain while climbing and pain while long walking; and had grade III PDT in physical examination. Data were analyzed by using Chi square test.

FINDINGS:
The frequency of knee instability before and after operation, in 30 and 90 degree flexion, had significant difference (P<0.001). Giving way, had significant difference before and after operation as well, (P<0.001). The frequency of pain while walking and climbing, also had significant difference (P<0.001).

CONCLUSION:
In the 15 patients who underwent PCL fixation, the grade of instability reduced to grade I. As therapeutic value of this method is the same as current renewal methods besides its easier procedure and less side effects, so it is recommended to use it necessarily in old PCL. Further studies with larger sample size and prolonged follow up are recommended.

KEY WORDS:
Old posterior crutiate ligament, avulsion, fixation, reconstruction