Foreword: The Posterior Cruciate Ligament

Injuries to the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) and methods of treatment of the injured PCL have historically been surrounded by controversy in the orthopedic community. The infrequent occurrence of PCL injuries and PCL-based multiple ligament knee injuries has led to limitations in clinical studies and a subsequent lag in basic science and clinical research compared with that for other ligamentous injuries. In recent years, new studies have elucidated the biomechanical function and complex anatomy of the PCL leading to an increased interest in research, understanding, and treatment of these complex injuries. In addition to improved understanding of knee ligament structure and biomechanics, technical advancements in allograft tissue, surgical instrumentation, graft tensioning and fixation methods, improved surgical techniques, and postoperative rehabilitation methods have enhanced the results in PCL reconstruction and PCL-based multiple ligament knee surgical outcomes.

Authors Fanelli, Beck, and Edson present a current concepts review article on the PCL addressing the anatomy, biomechanics, incidence, mechanisms of injury, classification, diagnosis, natural history, surgical indications and timing, rehabilitation, and results of treatment. Authors May, Gillette, Morgan, Krych, Stuart, and Levy present a systematic review of the PCL literature. Surgical techniques for the tibial inlay and the transtibial tunnel PCL reconstructions are presented by authors Stannard, Fanelli, Beck, and Edson.

The purpose of this special focus section is to provide experienced knee surgeons, general orthopedic surgeons, fellows, residents, medical students, and other health care professionals with an interest in the PCL, an overview for the evaluation and treatment of these complex injuries.