The Integral Role of Physiotherapy in Combined Complete Anterior Cruciate Ligament and Posterior Cruciate Ligament Arthroscopic Reconstruction: A Case Report

Cureus. 2024 Apr 3;16(4):e57556. doi: 10.7759/cureus.57556. eCollection 2024 Apr.

Abstract

Combined anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) injuries are infrequent in clinical practice, often leading to severe knee instability and functional limitations. A 30-year-old male presented with right knee pain and swelling following a two-wheeler accident. Diagnostic investigations confirmed complete ACL and PCL tears. The surgical intervention comprised arthroscopic-assisted ACL reconstruction using semitendinosus and gracilis tendons, accompanied by arthroscopic PCL reconstruction. Postoperatively, structured physiotherapy rehabilitation was initiated. After 12 weeks of rehabilitation, significant improvements in range of motion and muscular strength were observed. Tailored physiotherapy facilitated prompt recovery, enhancing functional mobility and independent ambulation. This case highlights the efficacy of comprehensive surgical intervention followed by structured rehabilitation in achieving favorable outcomes in patients with combined ACL and PCL injuries. Tailored physiotherapy plays a crucial role in optimizing functional recovery and facilitates the enhancement of the patient's functional mobility and independent ambulation.

Keywords: anterior cruciate ligament (acl); anterior cruciate ligament repair (aclr); physiotherapy; posterior cruciate ligament (pcl); posterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (pclr); rehabilitation.

Publication types

  • Case Reports