Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Reconstruction
Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction helps stabilize a torn ACL, which connects the shin bone (tibia) to your thigh bone (femur). Injuries to the ACL commonly occur during high-intensity sports, such as soccer, basketball and skiing.
What Is ACL Reconstruction Surgery?
ACL reconstruction is a surgical procedure that restores the function of a torn ACL, usually by using a tissue graft to replace the damaged ligament. The graft is typically taken from either the patient’s kneecap tendon, quadriceps tendon, hamstring tendon, or, in some cases, a donor.
The surgery is often recommended for athletes or physically active individuals whose knee instability interferes with their sports activities. However, it may also be necessary for people experiencing knee instability during daily activities, such as walking or climbing stairs.
Is ACL Reconstruction a Major Surgery?
Yes, ACL reconstruction is considered major surgery as it involves reconstructing one of the primary ligaments in the knee. The procedure usually takes place under general anesthesia, meaning the patient will be unconscious throughout the operation. The surgeon performs the procedure using arthroscopy, a minimally invasive technique using small incisions and a camera.
How Long Does an ACL Reconstruction Surgery Take?
ACL reconstruction surgery generally lasts between one and two hours. The actual time can vary depending on the complexity of the injury and the type of graft used. After surgery, patients are monitored in a recovery room until they wake up from anesthesia, which can add additional time to the overall hospital visit.
Before ACL reconstruction surgery, the patient will undergo a thorough evaluation, which includes imaging tests like MRI or X-ray to confirm the extent of the ligament damage. The surgeon will discuss graft options and the procedure with the patient, ensuring they are informed about what will happen during the surgery and the expected outcomes.
Some patients may need to complete pre-surgery physical therapy to reduce swelling and improve knee range of motion, which can help with post-surgery recovery.
- Preparation and Anesthesia: The patient is placed under general anesthesia to ensure comfort throughout the procedure.
- Incisions and Arthroscopy: Small incisions are made around the knee to insert a tiny camera (arthroscope) that allows the surgeon to view the knee joint in detail.
- Removal of the Torn ACL: The damaged ACL is removed, and the knee is prepared for the new graft.
- Graft Harvesting: If the graft is taken from the patient’s body, it is usually harvested from the hamstring or patellar tendon.
- Graft Placement: The new graft is positioned in the knee, secured with screws or other fixation devices to ensure it stays in place while healing.
- Closure and Recovery: The incisions are closed with stitches or surgical staples, and the knee is bandaged. The patient is then taken to the recovery room.
When Can I Walk After ACL Reconstruction?
After ACL reconstruction, the patient will likely experience knee pain, swelling and discomfort. Pain medications and ice therapy can help manage these symptoms. Depending on the surgeon's advice, it is crucial to keep the leg elevated and use crutches to minimize weight-bearing on the knee for the first few days or weeks.
Most patients can begin walking with crutches within a day or two of surgery. Full weight-bearing without assistance may take several weeks, depending on the patient’s progress and the advice of their healthcare provider. Many patients start physical therapy immediately after surgery to restore mobility and strength in the knee.
Recovery from ACL reconstruction can vary from patient to patient, but full recovery usually takes six to nine months. This timeframe includes the healing of the graft and a rigorous rehabilitation program to restore strength, flexibility and knee stability.
Physical therapy is an essential part of recovery after ACL reconstruction. The rehabilitation goals include restoring the range of motion, strengthening the muscles surrounding the knee, and gradually returning to daily activities and sports.
As with any major surgery, ACL reconstruction carries certain risks. Potential complications include infection, blood clots, knee stiffness and failure of the graft. Long-term risks may also involve incomplete healing or re-injury of the ligament, particularly if the patient returns to sports too soon.
To minimize risks, following the surgeon’s post-operative care instructions and participating fully in rehabilitation is essential.
Find an Orthopedic Surgeon in Nacogdoches, TX
Finding the right orthopedic surgeon is crucial if you are dealing with an ACL injury and need specialized care. At Nacogdoches Medical Partners, we offer experienced ACL reconstruction surgery and personalized rehabilitation plans to help you return to your active lifestyle. Contact us today at 936-205-9824 to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward recovery.