Dallas PCL Surgeon

The posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) is a band of tissue connecting the femur (thigh bone) to the tibia (shin bone) that prevents excessive backward movement. Understanding posterior cruciate ligament anatomy is crucial in modern sports medicine research and knee care. It works with the anterior cruciate ligament, one of the four major ligaments in the knee, to also provide stability for knee flexion and protects against impact. Posterior cruciate ligament injuries can decrease mobility and lead to severe pain, making the knee joint unstable. To repair these injuries, PCL reconstruction surgery is required.

While less common than ACL or MCL injuries, PCL tears, a type of torn ligament, often occur due to a direct blow to the front of the knee while it’s bent— this could be in a car accident or when one falls onto a bent knee. In severe cases, this can result in a dislocated knee. Sports injuries, particularly those involving a forceful impact to the front of the tibia, can also cause PCL tears.

According to modern sports medicine research, these injuries may also be associated with cartilage injuries that require comprehensive treatment. In some cases, the same type of trauma can also cause avulsion fractures, where a small piece of bone is pulled away at the ligament’s attachment site. If left untreated, PCL injuries can lead to knee stiffness and long-term complications.

If you’re experiencing knee instability or pain, consult with a specialized Dallas PCL surgeon, Dr. Steven J. Thornton, who has expertise in orthopaedic surgery to determine the best treatment plan for your recovery.

PCL Injuries Treatment Options & Procedures

It’s important to note that many PCL injuries, especially isolated, less severe tears, conservative or non surgical treatment can be effective. These non-surgical approaches focus on things like: reducing pain and swelling, and restoring knee function through methods such as RICE (rest, ice, compression, elevation), in addition to bracing (to keep the knee stable) and physical therapy.

PCL surgical treatment addresses tears in the ligament by repairing or reconstructing damaged tissue, often resulting from a twisting injury or multiple ligament injuries. Orthopaedic surgeons perform invasive PCL reconstruction surgery, which may be achieved through a tissue graft to improve stability and prevent displacement. Recovery following surgery for PCL injuries is a process that can take time. Your doctor has provided the following general guidelines for recovery. Please follow these unless your doctor provides specific instructions, which always take priority.

FAQS

Both the ACL and PCL are crucial for knee stability, but the difference is in how they prevent different types of movement. The ACL, for example, is in the front of the knee and prevents the shinbone (tibia) from sliding too far forward on the thighbone (femur). The PCL, on the other hand, is in the back of the knee and prevents the shinbone from sliding too far backward.

A PCL injury is often caused by a direct blow to the front of the knee while its bent– which could be from a car accident, when a bent knee forcefully strikes something, or when you fall onto a bent knee while participating in sports. This type of impact can result in a torn posterior cruciate ligament, which may occur in isolation or alongside other knee ligament injuries.

The PCL, or posterior cruciate ligament, is a strong ligament located inside your knee— The main job is to prevent your shin bone (tibia) from moving too far backward under your thigh bone, often referred to as the femur. Proper PCL function is critical for preventing knee pain and maintaining stability during weight-bearing activities.

Our patients find that surgery is often successful in reducing pain and improving function. Surgery involves reconstruction of the damaged ligament using a graft to restore stability. There are several factors, however, that can influence the success, including the severity of the injury, the surgical technique, graft choice, and more! In cases of complex knee ligament injuries where multiple structures are affected, a comprehensive surgical approach may be necessary for optimal outcomes.

What to Eat or Drink Following Your Procedure

While you do not have any dietary restrictions, many people find that broths and clear liquids are tolerable for the first day or two following surgery for PCL tears.
You may resume your regular diet at any time, but you may experience nausea after a heavy meal. Prescription pain medications can contribute to the development of nausea.
You’re encouraged to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of clear fluids or electrolyte beverages during the recovery period.

Caring for Incisions

Incisions have been made to repair your PCL injuries. Proper incision care is vital to prevent infection and promote proper healing. Below are some general guidelines for incision care:

A dressing has been applied to the posterior cruciate ligament tears surgical site. Do not attempt to remove this, even if it becomes saturated following surgery.
If your dressing becomes saturated, wrap it with sterile gauze. Our team will remove the dressing during your follow-up appointment and reapply it if necessary.
Your incision site needs to remain dry to prevent infection. You may shower 24 hours after discharge, but you must keep the incision site dry. This can be achieved by wrapping your knee with a protective plastic covering. Do not submerge the incision site in water. This means no baths, pools or hot tubs.
Do not apply topical agents near the incision site unless directed to do so by your doctor.
After your stitches or sutures have been removed, you may resume normal showers based on your doctor’s recommendations.

Pain and Medication Guidelines

The following are general aftercare guidelines for the use of medications. Your Dallas PCL doctor will provide specific instructions as they pertain to your health, prescriptions and procedure.

Local anesthesia from the posterior cruciate ligament reconstruction will dissipate within 6 to 12 hours. Pain usually reaches its height around day 2-3. Swelling may also intensify, and some patients may notice swelling immediately after surgery.
Take prescribed pain medications as directed on the packaging and according to your doctor’s instructions. Contact our office if you’ve found that your prescription is not adequately treating your pain.
Most prescription pain medications come with side effects that can include drowsiness, dizziness and constipation. Taking these medications with food may help to alleviate nausea.
If you experience severe nausea or vomiting, contact our office.
You should never attempt to drive or operate machinery while taking prescription pain medications.
If you are at high risk for developing blood clots, consult your doctor regarding the potential effects of pain medications on clot formation.

Your Mobility Following ACL Surgery

Elevate your leg above hip level while lying down to reduce swelling and relieve pressure on knee joint. Place pillows under your ankle, not your knee, to maintain proper alignment.
When moving around, rely on crutches for support. It may take some time to get used to your crutches, so move slowly and plan ahead. Do not attempt to bear weight on your knee until your Dallas PCL surgeon clears you to do so.
For the first two weeks following your surgery, avoid keeping your leg in one position for too long.
You should not drive until your doctor has evaluated your condition and given clearance to do so.
Ask your workplace for an accommodation to stay in a seated position with your leg elevated.

Proper Usage of Your Brace

A brace has been placed on your knee following surgical PCL reconstruction. You should keep this knee brace on and in an extended position until your Dallas PCL specialist says otherwise.
The brace is critical for protecting against other ligament injuries. Do not attempt to make adjustments without fully understanding how your brace works.
Our office can show you how to safely make adjustments.

Use a Cold Pack for Swelling

Cold therapy in the form of ice, cold packs or prescribed cooling devices can lessen swelling and pain on the injured knee. Below are some guidelines for cold therapy at home following PCL surgery:

Apply a cold pack, ice or prescribed cooling device for 20-30 minutes at a time. This can be done every 2-3 hours while awake. Most patients find success with this method for the first 3-5 days post-surgery.
To prevent skin damage, always place a protective barrier, such as a towel or plastic wrap, between the ice pack and your skin. Keep the incision site dry while applying cold therapy.

Movement and Stretching Guidelines

Light exercises, such as ankle rotations and controlled leg movements, can typically begin 36 hours after surgery, following your doctor’s instructions.
Light exercises can combat stiffness, but you may still feel sore. Do not push yourself. If an exercise causes severe pain, stop it and call our office.
Perform prescribed exercises 2-3 times daily to promote circulation and maintain flexibility.
Engage in regular ankle movements throughout the day to lower the risk of blood clots.
Our office can help you schedule and coordinate physical therapy if your doctor has ordered it.

CALL US IF…

Reach out right away if you notice:

214 265 3271

Severe, persistent pain that does not improve with medication or radiates through your upper arm.
Fever, chills, infection, redness, off-color discharge.
Severe swelling, tingling, numbness or skin discoloration, particularly in the hand, fingers or forearm.
Respiratory distress or chest discomfort.
Bleeding or persistent fluid leakage at the incision site.

Living with a PCL tear can be frustrating and limiting—but you don’t have to endure the discomfort or instability.

Contact Dr. Thornton’s office to learn about effective treatment strategies and start your journey towards a healthier, more active shoulder.

Along with other knee concerns, Dr. Thornton offers comprehensive care for LCL surgery, MCL injuries, meniscus root and meniscus tears, and patellar and quadriceps tendon conditions.

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