Anterior Cruciate Ligament and Posterior Cruciate Ligament Tears

Abstract

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) are two major ligaments that stabilize the knee. Injuries can occur to these ligaments by both contact and noncontact mechanisms. An injury to the ACL may present with a ``popping'' noise, pain and swelling, and an unsteady knee. An injury to the PCL most often presents as pain with swelling that leads to a stiff knee. Clinical diagnosis of an ACL tear can be made by the anterior drawer test or Lachman's test and for a PCL tear by the posterior drawer test. Both diagnoses can be confirmed by an MRI scan. Conservative management consists of rest, bracing, and therapy. In addition, surgical repair may be pursued for those interested.