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PCL Surgery

The Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) is a ligament that connects the upper leg to the lower leg. This injury happens when this ligament is stretched or torn, often due to accidents, sports injuries, or falls. The PCL is important for keeping the knee stable and strong.

In mild cases, rest, therapy, and bracing can help. But when the tear is severe, surgery is a good option. PCL surgery repairs the torn ligament with a tendon graft to restore knee stability. It allows patients to return to normal activities.

  • 20+

    Years Experienced

  • 15000+

    Joints Operated

  • 50,000+

    Patients Treated

Overview

What is PCL Surgery?

PCL or Posterior Cruciate Ligament Surgery is a medical procedure in which the PCL ligament is repaired and restored after an injury. This ligament is stronger than the ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament). This PCL injury includes pain, swelling, stiffness, and some other serious symptoms.

This injury usually happens to football players, basketball players, and athletes. It can be treated with surgical or non-surgical treatment procedures.

When is PCL Surgery Needed?

PCL reconstruction surgery is required in any of the following conditions:

  • When the PCL is badly torn and the knees become unstable.
  • If pain and swelling do not get better with normal medication.
  • When the knee works inefficiently during walking, running, or sports.
  • If there is damage to more than one ligament in the knee.
  • For athletes or active people who want to return to high-level sports.
  • An untreated PCL injury may cause early arthritis or more knee problems.

Different Levels of PCL Surgery

There are mainly four grades of PCL Surgery depending upon the severity of the PCL issue:

  • Grade I: The PCL has a small tear. It is stretched but still able to hold the knee joint with stability.
  • Grade II: The PCL is more damaged. It is still partly attached but has become loose, which makes the knee less stable.
  • Grade III: The PCL is completely torn. The ligament cannot support the knee, which makes the joint unstable.
  • Grade IV: The PCL is torn along with other ligaments in the knee, causing serious instability and damage.

Recovery Time After PCL Surgery

Recovery depends on the complexity of the operation and the severity of the injury. Here is a detailed explanation of the PCL recovery time for the patient:

Recovery Time Recovery Description
First few days
  • Pain and swelling managed with medicine and ice.
  • Use of crutches and a knee brace.
  • Walking allowed with support.
1 week
  • Keep wound clean and dry.
  • Stitches removed by the doctor.
  • No weight on the operated leg.
4 weeks
  • Stiff brace removed, protective brace used.
  • Start light exercises (quad tightening, ankle pumps).
  • Partial weight allowed with toe touch.
6 weeks
  • Resume daily activities.
  • Begin physical therapy for range of motion.
  • Exercises: calf raises, hamstring curls, and stationary cycling.
3–6 months
  • Light jogging, cycling, and swimming allowed.
  • Add strengthening and stretching exercises.
  • Focus on balance and endurance.
9–12 months
  • Return to sports and heavy activities (with doctor’s approval).
  • Continue wearing the knee brace for 1–2 years if advised.

Success Rate of PCL Surgery

PCL surgery is generally successful, with approximately 80% to 90% of patients achieving good results. Some studies even show success rates as high as 95%.

Success usually means the knee becomes more stable, less painful, and patients can perform normal activities. Full recovery typically takes 6 to 12 months, and the results may vary from person to person.

What We Offer?

We, as an orthopedic rehab centre, provide quality treatment to our patients. We take care of all the required preparations for PCL surgery and the post-care for the patients.

  • Inclusion of advanced technology for operational purposes.
  • High success rate of the doctor.
  • Pre and post-surgery guidance.
  • Proper prescription for medication.
  • Safe surgical procedure is followed.

Frequently asked questions

PCL surgery is done to fix a torn posterior cruciate ligament in the knee. It helps the knee become stable and work better again.

PCL surgery is needed if the ligament gets torn badly and the knee feels unstable. It is also done when pain and swelling do not get better with rest, medication, or therapy.

PCL reconstruction surgery replaces the torn ligament with new tissue. The new tissue may come from your own body or from a donor.

Recovery after PCL reconstruction surgery usually takes 9 to 12 months. The exact time depends on your healing and physical therapy progress.

You may feel pain and swelling after surgery, but this is normal. Medicines, ice, and therapy help reduce the pain.

There can be risks like infection, stiffness, or slow healing. These problems are not common and can often be treated.

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