Injured posterior cruciate ligament of the knee

The posterior cruciate ligament is the largest and strongest ligament in the knee and provides stability. PCL injuries are usually sustained from high-energy trauma (e.g. collision with a car). Sports activities are the second most common cause of injury. Isolated injuries of the PCL are uncommon. Symptoms will depend on the severity of the impact; in the event of a serious accident, it will be accompanied by more injuries, instability in the knee and even dislocation. If the tear is isolated, symptoms are more subtle, such as effusion, limp and pain in the back of the knee. Diagnosis is suspected due to the mechanism of the injury and is confirmed with an MRI scan or arthroscopy. Basic protection treatments are applied: rest, ice, compression, elevation and anti-inflammatory medication. In cases where the injury causes instability of the knee, surgical repair may be necessary.