Mid-substance tear of the anterior and posterior cruciate ligaments in children: a report of three patients.

We report one case of mid-substance injury of the posterior cruciate ligament and two cases of mid-substance injuries of the anterior cruciate ligament in children. Surgical repair with augmentation using the iliotibial band was performed on these patients without the use of transphyseal drill holes. A small strip of the iliotibial band was sutured onto the end of the cruciate ligament stump to augment the remnant. At the most recent follow-up examinations, conducted 5-11 years after surgery, no restriction or discomfort in daily and sport activities was reported, and acceptable levels of function in the injured knees were noted in all patients.