PCL Injury & Reconstruction – Dr. Vinit Oswal | Expert Orthopaedic Doctor in Bengaluru

Dr. Vinit Oswal, an experienced Orthopaedic Surgeon at Spire Clinic, Bengaluru, specializes in the diagnosis and management of PCL (Posterior Cruciate Ligament) injuries. Using evidence-based non-surgical care and advanced arthroscopic reconstruction techniques, he helps patients restore knee stability, function, and confidence.

What is a PCL Injury?

The Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) is one of the main stabilizers of the knee, preventing the tibia (shinbone) from moving backward relative to the femur. PCL injuries usually occur from dashboard impacts in road accidents, falls on a bent knee, or sports trauma. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and a feeling of knee “giving way,” especially when walking downhill or descending stairs.

When should you seek treatment for a PCL Injury?

• Persistent knee pain and swelling after an injury
• Instability or “backward shift” sensation of the shinbone
• Difficulty with squatting, running, or descending stairs
• Combined injuries (PCL with PLC/MCL/LCL or meniscus damage)
• Failure of rest/physiotherapy to control symptoms

How is a PCL Injury Treated (Conservative & Surgical)?

• Conservative Management (Grade I–II) – Rest, ice, elevation, activity modification, hinged/braced support (posterior drawer-limiting brace), and focused physiotherapy to strengthen quadriceps.
• Surgical Reconstruction (Grade III or Multi-ligament) – Arthroscopic PCL reconstruction using grafts (autograft hamstring/patellar tendon or allograft) to restore posterior stability.
• Adjunct Procedures – Treatment of associated ligament or meniscal injuries as indicated.

How is PCL Reconstruction Surgery Done?

• Performed arthroscopically via keyhole incisions under spinal or general anaesthesia
• Damaged ligament is assessed; tunnels are created in tibia and femur
• Graft (autograft/allograft) is passed and fixed with screws or suspensory devices
• Intra-operative imaging ensures anatomic placement and tensioning
• Typical duration: 1–2 hours, depending on associated repairs

What Care is Necessary After PCL Surgery?

• Protected weight-bearing with a PCL-specific brace as advised
• Early controlled range-of-motion and quadriceps activation under physiotherapist guidance
• Avoid hamstring-dominant loading early to protect the graft
• Progressive strengthening and proprioception training over weeks
• Return to running: ~3–4 months; pivoting/contact sports: ~6–9 months (individualized)
• Pain control, swelling management, and regular follow-ups to monitor recovery

Adherence to the rehabilitation protocol is critical. A structured program focusing on quadriceps strength and neuromuscular control yields the best outcomes after PCL injuries.

Risks & Complications

• Infection or bleeding (rare in arthroscopic procedures)
• Knee stiffness or loss of motion
• Residual posterior laxity or graft failure
• Neurovascular injury (very rare)
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)

Advantages of PCL Reconstruction / Guided Rehab

• Restores posterior knee stability and function
• Reduces risk of further damage to meniscus and cartilage
• Arthroscopic technique with smaller incisions and quicker recovery
• Enables return to sport and active lifestyle
• Long-term relief from instability and pain with proper rehab

Book Your Appointment

For additional information on PCL Injury & Reconstruction, or to have your knee evaluated, please call +91 6364329177 – Dr. Vinit Oswal, Expert Orthopaedic Doctor in Bengaluru, serving patients at Spire Clinic and across Bangalore City.