Minneapolis PCL Tear Lawyer
The posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) is one of four primary ligaments that hold the knee together providing stability and flexibility. The PCL is at the back of the knee joint and keeps the tibia from moving backward too far. The PCL is stronger than the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and is not injured as often.
PCL Tear
The most common cause of a PCL injury is hitting the leg against the dashboard in a car accident or truck accident. When the leg hits the dashboard, it forces the shin backward causing damage to the PCL and sometimes other ligaments in the knee.
PCL tears are graded according to the severity of injury, depending on the extent of laxity in the ligament. The three grades are:
- Grade 1 – partial tear, the knee is stable
- Grade 2 – partial to complete tear, no other ligament injury, the knee is somewhat unstable
- Grade 3 – complete tear with additional ligament injuries, the knee is unstable
Initial treatment for PCL injuries is rest, ice, compression, and elevation. Reconstruction surgery for grade 3 PCL injuries is controversial. PCL reconstruction does not have a high success rate. The surgery is most beneficial for the associated injuries of a grade 3 tear. Some surgeons do believe PCL reconstruction can lead to improved knee stability and reduce the likelihood of problems in the future.
Minneapolis PCL Tear Lawyer
The lawyers at Terry, Slane & Ruohonen will work aggressively to secure compensation for your PCL tear injury, including surgery if that is what medical professionals recommended. If your PCL tear was due to negligence by another, you may be able to receive compensation for lost wages, medical expenses, and pain and suffering. We will handle the insurance companies, do the paperwork, and file your claim. Contact a PCL Tear Lawyer or call 612-362-0000.
