The effect of isometric graft posterior cruciate ligament reconstruction on anterior tibial translation

Eight fresh-frozen cadaver knees were studied to evaluate whether an isomet rically placed posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) graft restores normal post erior tibial translation without overconstraining anterior tibial translati on. Each knee was tested with a three-axis load cell in the intact state, a fter PCL sectioning, and after PCL reconstruction. After PCL reconstruction , posterior tibial displacement was restored to values observed in the inta ct state for all flexion angles except 60 degrees and 90 degrees. Anterior tibial translation was not significantly changed for any of the three state s. These results indicate isometric reconstruction of the PCL significantly reduces posterior tibial translation without overconstraining anterior tib ial translation.