PCL reconstruction is usually carried out through keyhole surgery (arthroscopically). It is usually done under general anaesthetic, which means you’ll be asleep during the procedure.
Your orthopaedic surgeon makes three small cuts in your knee and inserts a telescopic video camera and surgical instruments.
First, your surgeon will cut a section of tendon from your thigh (the hamstring) or knee. They will then drill small holes in your thigh bone and shin bone, and insert the ends of the tendon.
This tendon (graft) will be fixed in place with screws or staples. Donor tendons can also be used (allografts), or artificial ligaments in the presence of multi-ligament reconstruction. You should discuss this option with your surgeon.
The area is then closed using surgical tape or dissolvable stitches, and a dressing is applied.
You should be able to go home on the same day as the surgery, or as soon as you have recovered from the anaesthetic.
It usually takes about six months for the graft to incorporate, although it can be as long as 12 months.
During the first six weeks, depending on the level of the injury, you’ll need to wear a leg brace to limit the movement of your knee, and you’ll need to use crutches to keep the weight off it.
Your physiotherapist will give you some gentle exercises to help build up the muscles and mobility of your knee.
You should be able to return to work four to six weeks after the operation, if your job isn’t physically demanding. Those with more active jobs will need a longer recovery time.
It usually takes six to twelve months to make a full recovery and return to sports.
