Posterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction without Tourniquet Use Reduces Joint Swelling without Compromising Surgical Outcomes
Study Objective
This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of using a tourniquet during posterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (PCLR) surgery. The researchers hypothesized that avoiding tourniquet use would reduce postoperative joint swelling and associated complications while preserving comparable surgical results.
Methods
A retrospective review was conducted on 108 consecutive patients who underwent PCLR from March 2016 to July 2022. Patients with osteoarthritis, meniscus injury requiring repair, peripheral neuropathy, pregnancy, lumbar radiculopathy, or prior knee surgery on either knee were excluded. The patients were divided into two groups based on surgery dates: a tourniquet group and a non-tourniquet group.
Evaluation Criteria
- Pain severity measured by visual analog scale (VAS)
- Range of motion assessment
- Operation duration
- Arthroscopic visibility
- Complications
- Analgesic consumption
- Total bleeding quantified from suction and drainage
Results
Among the 108 patients, 55 underwent PCLR with a tourniquet between March 2016 and October 2019, while 53 underwent the procedure without a tourniquet between November 2019 and July 2022. No significant differences were found between groups in terms of sex, age, or body mass index (BMI).
The study hypothesized that "PCLR without tourniquet use would reduce postoperative joint swelling and tourniquet-related complications while maintaining comparable surgical outcomes."
The findings indicate that omitting the tourniquet can decrease joint swelling after surgery without negatively affecting surgical success or visibility during the procedure.
Author's Summary
Avoiding tourniquet use in PCLR surgery lessens postoperative joint swelling and related complications while preserving effective surgical outcomes and safety.