Arthroscopic single-bundle posterior cruciate ligament reconstruction using a hamstring autograft ( results after early and delayed rehabilitation)

Background Posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) reconstruction remains a challenging operation. There are many factors to be considered in this technique, including graft material selection and method of fixation. This prospective study compared the clinical results of single-bundle PCL reconstruction using a hamstring tendon autograft, with a minimum follow-up of 2 years. Patients and methods A total of 26 patients were included in the study: 13 patients who started physical therapy on the second postoperative day and 13 who had their knees immobilized in full extension for 3 weeks. All patients had an isolated chronic PCL rupture. The evaluation parameters included the International Knee Documentation Committee scores and the Lysholm knee scores. Results The results showed a significant difference in the functional scores between the two groups. In contrast to many recent reports that favor early range of motion exercises, the results of this study showed better clinical results with delayed rehabilitation. Conclusion Protection of the knee early in the postoperative period improves the clinical results.