A Study of Functional Outcomes of Anatomical Posterolateral Corner Reconstruction for the Treatment of Posterolateral Instability of the Knee Joint: Minimum 6 Month Follow Up

Introduction: A number of studies in recent years have led to a heightened understanding of the PLC, and biomechanically validated reconstruction techniques. Postero-lateral corner injuries are commonly associated with ACL or PCL tears, with only 28 % of all PLC injuries occurring in isolation. The aim of the study is to assess whether or not the patient regains pre-injury level of physical activity and if so then the time required for the same along with functional results, complications and overall outcomes of anatomical postero-lateral complex reconstruction. Materials and Methods: There were total 15 patients included in this study after defining careful inclusion and exclusion criteria and PLC injury was classified according to modified Hungston classification, it was managed with modified La Prade technique. Patients were kept on regular follow up and were assessed based on IKDC score, knee society score, Lysholm knee score and lateral opening on varus stress view radiograph with each follow-up. Results: According to International Knee Documentation Committee, the mean pre-operative subjective score was 43.33 while the mean post-operative score was 86.53. In our study, referring to Knee Society Score, 10 (66.66 %) patients had excellent functional outcome with return to normal routine activity, while 5 (33.33 %) patients had good clinical and functional outcome with 14 (93.33 %) having no complications post-operatively and 1 (6.66 %) patient having infection at the operated site upon follow up. Conclusion: PLC injuries which were operated with Modified La Prade technique in our study, patients showed improved alignment and no evidence of any residual pain in the affected lower extremity or any abnormal gait following operation and completing post-operative rehabilitation.