Imaging of posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) reconstruction: normal postsurgical appearance and complications

Skeletal Radiol. 2014 Dec;43(12):1659-68. doi: 10.1007/s00256-014-1975-6. Epub 2014 Aug 9.

Abstract

This article reviews the normal postsurgical anatomy and appearance of PCL reconstructions on MDCT and MRI with the different operative techniques considering the type of tibial fixation, use of a single or double bundle, type of tendon graft and the fixation material. Tunnel positioning, appearance of the ligament graft and findings at the donor site are considered. Imaging signs of PCL graft failure and its possible causes are discussed. Imaging manifestations of other potential complications of both the PCL graft and donor sites are described, such as laxity, impingement, arthrofibrosis, ganglion cyst formation or complications related to the fixation material.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Joint Instability / diagnosis
  • Knee Joint / anatomy & histology
  • Knee Joint / pathology
  • Knee Joint / surgery
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging / methods
  • Plastic Surgery Procedures*
  • Posterior Cruciate Ligament / anatomy & histology*
  • Posterior Cruciate Ligament / pathology
  • Posterior Cruciate Ligament / surgery*
  • Postoperative Complications / diagnostic imaging*
  • Postoperative Complications / pathology*
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed / methods