Who Need ACR Reconstriction Surgery

ACL reconstruction surgery is commonly performed on individuals who have suffered a torn or ruptured anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), often due to sports injuries or trauma. Conditions that typically require this procedure include:

• Complete ACL tears
• Partial ACL tears with instability
• Sports-related knee injuries (e.g., football, basketball, skiing)
• ACL injuries combined with other ligament or meniscus damage
• Chronic knee instability or repeated giving way

Key Takeaways

Indication of ACL Reconstruction Surgery

ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) reconstruction surgery is typically recommended for individuals with significant knee instability due to a torn ACL. Common indications include:

• Complete ACL Tear: Confirmed by MRI or clinical tests and causing knee instability.
• Persistent Knee Instability: Recurrent episodes of the knee "giving way," especially during sports or daily activities.
• Active Lifestyle: Individuals who wish to return to sports or physically demanding jobs that involve pivoting, jumping, or quick directional changes.
• Associated Knee Injuries: Presence of additional injuries such as meniscal tears, cartilage damage, or ligament injuries that may worsen without surgical intervention.
• Failure of Non-Surgical Treatments: When physical therapy and bracing do not provide adequate knee stability.
• Young Age: Younger patients involved in high-impact activities often benefit from surgery to prevent long-term joint damage.

ACL reconstruction helps restore knee stability, prevent further joint damage, and enable return to physical activities safely.

Preparing for ACL Reconstruction Surgery

• Consultation with Your Surgeon: Discuss the procedure, risks, and recovery plan in detail. Address all your questions and concerns.
• Medical Evaluation: Undergo required tests, such as X-rays or MRI scans, to assess the extent of the injury.
• Pre-Surgery Exercises: Strengthen your leg muscles through prescribed exercises to improve post-surgery recovery.
• Medications: Inform your doctor about any medications you are taking, as some may need to be adjusted or stopped before surgery.
• Stop Smoking and Alcohol: Avoid smoking and alcohol, as they can hinder healing and increase complications.
• Fasting: Follow fasting instructions (usually 6-8 hours) before surgery to ensure safety during anaesthesia.
• Home Preparation: Arrange for mobility aids like crutches and set up a comfortable recovery area at home.
• Transportation and Assistance: Plan for someone to drive you to and from the hospital and assist you during the initial recovery days.
• Mental Readiness: Stay informed and mentally prepared for the procedure and the recovery process ahead.

ACL Reconstruction Surgery Procedure

• Anesthesia Administration: General or regional anaesthesia is used to keep the patient comfortable and pain-free throughout surgery.
• Arthroscopic Examination: A small camera (arthroscope) is inserted through tiny incisions to inspect the knee joint and confirm the extent of damage.
• Removal of Torn ACL: The damaged ligament is carefully removed using surgical tools through additional small incisions.
• Graft Harvesting: A tendon graft, often from the patient's hamstring or patellar tendon, is prepared to replace the torn ACL.
• Graft Placement: The graft is introduced into the knee and carefully positioned via small holes drilled into the thigh bone (femur) and shinbone (tibia).
• Fixation: The graft is held in place with screws or other fixing devices to ensure stability during the healing phase.
• Closure: Sutures or staples are used to close the small incisions, followed by a sterile dressing.
• Postoperative Stabilization: A knee brace or bandage is used to immobilize and protect the knee immediately after surgery.
• Monitoring and Recovery: The patient is moved to the recovery room for monitoring before being discharged with detailed post-surgery care instructions.

Common Complications After ACL Surgery

• Infection: Rare, but possible at the incision sites.
• Blood Clots: Can form in the legs, leading to swelling or pain.
• Knee Stiffness: Difficulty straightening the knee.
• Graft Failure: The graft may fail to heal properly or become loose.
• Nerve Damage: In rare cases, nerves can be injured.
• Swelling and Pain: Swelling may persist beyond the normal recovery period.
• Scar Tissue: Excessive scarring may limit knee movement.

ACL Reconstruction Surgery Recovery Time

• First two weeks: Use crutches and a brace to control pain, reduce swelling, and re-establish fundamental knee movement.
• Weeks 3-6: Start physical therapy to enhance range of motion, strength, and stability.
• 3 to 6 months: Gradually resume non-contact activities and sports-specific training.
• 6 to 9 months: Complete recovery for high-impact sports, depending on strength and knee stability tests.

Strict devotion to physiotherapy and follow-ups leads to a smoother recovery.

Your health is everything - prioritize your well-being today.

Schedule Your Appointment

Precautions After ACL Reconstruction Surgery

• Rest and Elevate: Rest your knee and keep it elevated to reduce swelling.
• Pain Management: Take prescribed pain medications as directed.
• Use Crutches and Brace: Use crutches to avoid putting weight on the knee and wear a knee brace for support.
• Avoid Stress on Knee: Don't put too much weight on the operated leg during the first few weeks.
• Follow Physical Therapy: Do your exercises to regain strength and movement.
• Avoid Strenuous Activities: No running or intense exercises until cleared by your doctor.
• Watch for Infection: Keep an eye on any signs of infection, like redness or drainage.
• Healthy Diet: Eat well to support healing and tissue recovery.
• Gradual Return to Activities: Slowly increase activity levels as your doctor advises.
• Follow-Up Visits: Keep all doctor appointments to track progress.