Knee extension contracture with fixed anterior tibia subluxation treated with PCL release and quadricepsplasty: a case report

J Exp Orthop. 2023 Nov 29;10(1):125. doi: 10.1186/s40634-023-00703-y.

Abstract

58-year-old male presented with knee extension contracture (25°) with iatrogenic fixed anterior tibial subluxation. Consecutive arthroscopic arthrolysis, manipulation under anesthesia, and quadriceps-Z-plasty during one surgery failed to restore flexion. Therefore, shortened posterior cruciate ligament was released, which eliminated subluxation and allowed 115° flexion. Despite physiotherapy, flexion progressively decreased to 70° postoperatively. Revision quadricepsplasty by transverse incisions restored 120° of flexion maintained at 31-months follow-up. International Knee Documentation Committee increased 4/87- > 50/87, Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome 7/100- > 68/100 at follow-up. Posterior cruciate ligament release and repeated quadricepsplasty could be a viable salvage option in severe extension contracture with fixed anterior tibial subluxation.

Keywords: Extension contracture; Flexion deficit, fixed anterior tibial subluxation; Posterior cruciate ligament; Quadricepsplasty; Release; Severe.