Well, so far as I am aware, it's only removed if it's condition is poor.
Does the ACL continue to travel through the replaced joint? I would think it would be damaged with the flatness of the platform and the spacer. Especially with the rotating platform.... Just wondering. I did some research and found this under the Zimmer website:
Stability
Ligaments are tough bands of tissue that connect the thigh bone and the shin bone. They stretch as you flex, extend and rotate your knee.
The cruciate ligaments are so called because they cross over each other, forming a cross when viewed from the side.
- The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) keeps the shin from sliding forward.
- The posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) behind the ACL keeps the thigh bone from sliding all the way back.
The medial collateral ligament on the inside of the knee and the lateral collateral ligament on the outside of the knee prevent the thigh bone from sliding sideways when you walk.
When putting in knee implants, 99% of surgeons cut or “sacrifice” the ACL since it’s usually too damaged and tends to get in the way during surgery. To compensate for the ACL, the knee implant includes a tibial insert to provide stability.
The decision whether or not to sacrifice the PCL is more subjective, depending upon surgeon philosophy, functionality, etc. Some surgeons want to retain as much of the natural anatomy as possible. Others feel that a partially damaged ligament (as is usually the case) is unpredictable after surgery.
If the PCL is sacrificed, it must be substituted.
Best,
Crystal