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PCL Reconstruction Surgery in India

Surgical reconstruction of the posterior cruciate ligament to restore knee stability and function after injury.

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Overview

Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) reconstruction is a specialized surgical procedure performed to restore knee stability after a PCL tear or injury. The PCL is one of the four major ligaments in the knee that connects the femur (thigh bone) to the tibia (shin bone), preventing the tibia from sliding backward. PCL injuries are less common than ACL injuries but can significantly impact knee function and athletic performance. Dr. Gurudeo Kumar, a leading sports medicine specialist at Arthoscenter in Patna, Bihar, has successfully performed over 120 PCL reconstruction surgeries with a 94% success rate in restoring full knee stability. His expertise in arthroscopic techniques and personalized rehabilitation protocols has helped athletes and active individuals return to their sports and daily activities with confidence. The procedure typically involves using a graft (from your own hamstring tendon, patellar tendon, or donor tissue) to reconstruct the damaged PCL. Modern arthroscopic techniques allow for minimally invasive surgery with smaller incisions, reduced pain, and faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery. Most patients can return to full athletic activities within 9-12 months with proper rehabilitation.

Symptoms & Indications

This surgery may be recommended if you experience:

Posterior knee pain and swelling immediately after injury

Feeling of instability or knee "giving way" especially when walking downhill

Difficulty walking or bearing weight on the affected leg

Limited range of motion in the knee joint

Posterior sag sign (tibia slides backward when knee is bent)

Pain when kneeling or squatting

Stiffness and difficulty fully extending the knee

Chronic knee pain that worsens with activity

Procedure Details

Duration

2-3 hours

Anesthesia

Spinal or general anesthesia with optional nerve block for post-operative pain control

Preparation for Surgery

Pre-operative preparation includes MRI to assess the extent of PCL damage, physical examination, blood tests, and consultation with the anesthesiologist. Patients are advised to stop certain medications and arrange for post-surgery transportation and care.

Surgical Steps

1

Anesthesia is administered (spinal or general) to ensure patient comfort

2

Small incisions (portals) are made around the knee for arthroscopic access

3

Arthroscope (tiny camera) is inserted to visualize the knee joint interior

4

Damaged PCL tissue is carefully removed and the bone tunnels are prepared

5

Graft tissue (autograft or allograft) is harvested and prepared

6

The graft is positioned through bone tunnels to replicate the natural PCL

7

The graft is secured with surgical screws, buttons, or other fixation devices

8

The knee is tested for proper stability and range of motion

9

Incisions are closed with sutures and sterile dressings are applied

Recovery Timeline

What to expect during your recovery journey

Day 1-3

Recovery

Hospital stay with pain management, ice therapy, and early mobilization with crutches

Week 1-6

Recovery

Use of knee brace, gentle range of motion exercises, and progressive weight bearing

Week 6-12

Recovery

Increased physical therapy, strengthening exercises, and improved mobility

Month 3-6

Recovery

Advanced strengthening, proprioception training, and sport-specific exercises

Month 6-12

Recovery

Gradual return to sports and full activities with physician clearance

Tips for Faster Recovery

Follow the structured rehabilitation protocol strictly for optimal graft healing

Use crutches and knee brace as directed to protect the healing graft

Apply ice regularly to reduce swelling and manage pain

Attend all physical therapy sessions and perform home exercises daily

Avoid high-impact activities and pivoting movements during early recovery

Maintain a healthy diet rich in protein to support tissue healing

Keep surgical wounds clean and dry to prevent infection

Communicate any unusual pain, swelling, or concerns to your surgeon immediately

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this procedure

Q1.What causes PCL injuries?

PCL injuries commonly occur from direct impact to the front of the knee (dashboard injury in car accidents), hyperextension, or landing awkwardly from a jump. They are also seen in contact sports like football and rugby.

Q2.How long does recovery take after PCL reconstruction?

Initial recovery takes 3-4 months, but full return to sports typically requires 9-12 months. The timeline depends on graft healing, individual progress, and adherence to rehabilitation protocols.

Q3.Can PCL tears heal without surgery?

Isolated, partial PCL tears may heal with conservative treatment including bracing and physical therapy. However, complete tears or combined ligament injuries usually require surgical reconstruction for optimal stability.

Q4.What is the success rate of PCL reconstruction?

Dr. Kumar achieves a 94% success rate with modern arthroscopic PCL reconstruction. Most patients return to their pre-injury activity levels with proper rehabilitation and gradual progression.

Q5.Will I need to stay in the hospital?

Most patients stay 1-2 nights for pain management and initial physical therapy. Some cases may be done as outpatient surgery depending on patient health and post-operative support at home.

Q6.What type of graft is best for PCL reconstruction?

Options include hamstring autograft, patellar tendon autograft, or allograft (donor tissue). Dr. Kumar will recommend the best option based on your age, activity level, and knee anatomy.

Q7.When can I return to sports after PCL reconstruction?

Non-contact sports may be possible at 6-9 months, while contact sports typically require 9-12 months. Return is based on strength testing, functional assessments, and surgeon clearance.

Q8.What are the alternatives to surgery?

Conservative treatment options include physical therapy focused on strengthening the quadriceps and hamstrings, functional bracing, activity modification, and anti-inflammatory medications.

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Surgical reconstruction of torn anterior cruciate ligament using graft

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Cartilage Restoration Surgery in India

Advanced surgical techniques to repair and regenerate damaged articular cartilage in knee joints, restoring function and preventing arthritis.

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Considering This Surgery?

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