Case report of concomitant avulsion fractures of the medial meniscus and posterior cruciate ligament

Abstract

Rationale: Posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) is the strongest ligament of the knee, and avulsion fractures of PCL are a very rare type of injury. These injuries occur as a result of high-energy traumas, and different accompanying pathologies may be seen. However, tibial avulsion fracture of the PCL associated with a medial meniscus (MM) avulsion fracture has never been reported before. We want to present this unique type of posteromedial knee injury as a case report. Patient concern: A 42-year-old man presented with severe pain and swelling due to a ski injury. Diagnosis: Concomitant avulsion fractures of PCL and MM were detected after imaging. Interventions: Both avulsion fractures were treated with open reduction and fixation with lag screws using the posterior approach. Outcomes: No complications were encountered, and the painless full range of motion and weight-bearing was achieved at the third month after the operation. Lessons: Anatomical reduction and stable fixation of these intra-articular fractures are essential for the stability of the knee. The posterior approach should be kept in mind to access these types of fractures safely. Care should be taken in terms of other injuries that may accompany the PCL avulsion fractures caused by high-energy traumas.