Surgery is considered when it is the right choice for you. Before your operation you will receive a Preparing for Surgery booklet and a detailed guide related to your specific procedure.
Recovery and Return to Sport
Recovery and Return to Activity
After surgery:
- Recovery after PCL surgery takes months and requires dedicated effort in rehabilitation. A specialized brace is used for an extended period to protect the graft.
- Weight bearing and motion are advanced carefully
- Return to sport is typically nine to twelve months after surgery
- Quadriceps strength is a key measure of readiness and is critical to work on
- Rehabilitation is the single most important factor you control!
Risks to Understand
- Some residual laxity is common after PCL reconstruction but is usually not clinically relevant.
- A PCL-deficient knee places extra load on the kneecap and the inner compartment. This can lead to arthritis in those areas over time.
- Other risks include infection, blood clots, and problems related to anesthesia. This will be discussed in more detail prior to surgery.
For how this condition is diagnosed and every treatment option, including nonoperative care, read the full PCL Injuries guide.
Instructions and therapy protocols
Each version of this operation has its own post-op instructions and physical therapy protocol. Bring the protocol to your first therapy visit.
- PCL ReconstructionPost-op instructionsPT protocol
- PCL and Posterolateral Corner ReconstructionPost-op instructionsPT protocol
- Posterolateral Corner ReconstructionPost-op instructionsPT protocol
