A novel MIS technique for posterior cruciate ligament avulsion fractures.

OBJECTIVE: Open surgical approaches to treat tibial avulsion fractures of the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) often use large incisions involving extensive muscle dissection and retraction. The objective of this study was to describe a new mini-invasive approach targeting the fractured zone, to minimize surgical dissection and improve recovery and rehabilitation.

METHODS: The new approach was used in 15 males and seven females with isolated PCL avulsions. The length of the surgical incision, surgical time, need for conversion to open technique, visual analog scores (VAS) and duration of hospital stay were studied to assess the efficacy, learning curve and advantages of the new technique. Neurovascular complications were recorded. At the two-year follow-up, International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) scores were recorded to assess function.

RESULTS: Patients were followed up for a mean of 29months (range: 34-41). The mean length of the incision was 4.1cm (range: 3.4 to five) measured at the end of the procedure. None of the patients required conversion to an open technique and no neurovascular complications were recorded. The mean surgical time was 40min (range: 25-50). The mean VAS on discharge was 2.2 (range: one to four) and patients stayed at the hospital for a mean of 2.2days (range: one to three). The mean IKDC score at one-year post surgery was 86.4 (range: 83.9-90.8).

CONCLUSIONS: The new mini-invasive targeted approach provides adequate exposure for performing internal fixation of PCL avulsion fractures without the surgical morbidity associated with conventional open surgical approaches. The procedure is safe, fast and does not require a long learning curve.