[Treatment of posterior cruciate ligament rupture and recent knee dislocations by olecranisation of the patella without surgical repair].

Olecranisation of the patella was described and first used by Grammont (1984) to maintain reduction of the knee joint after posterior cruciate repair and reconstruction. Since 1985 we used this technique in 18 acute posterior ruptures and knee dislocations which did not undergo surgery. Knee laxity is assessed under general anaesthesia with radiographic control. A 4 or 5 mm. Steinmann pin is introduced medially at the top of the patella and drilled vertically through the bone to continue behind the patella tendon. After reduction of the posterior drawer, the pin is passed into the anterior part of the tibia. Full mobility between 0 degrees and 90 degrees is maintained. Physiotherapy started immediately and early weight bearing is allowed with a posterior splint. Olecranisation prevents posterior subluxation of the tibia and gives an anterior tibial subluxation force which is minor in flexion but major in extension. We followed up our patients for 1 to 8 years. The latest testing with radiographs demonstrate posterior drawer but all patients report good results. Early physiotherapy avoids stiffness, amyotrophy, and reflex sympathetic dystrophy. Olecranisation appears to give similar results more quickly and with fewer complications than P. C. L. surgery.