ACL Reconstruction

Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) reconstruction is a surgical procedure used to repair a torn ACL, one of the key ligaments that help stabilize the knee joint.

What is the ACL?

The ACL is a band of tissue that connects the femur (thigh bone) to the tibia (shin bone) in the center of the knee. It plays a crucial role in maintaining knee stability and facilitating smooth movement.

Causes of ACL Tears

• Sports injuries, particularly those involving sudden stops, changes of direction, or direct blows to the knee
• Non-contact injuries, such as landing from a jump or pivoting on a planted foot
• Overuse or repetitive strain on the knee joint
• Trauma, such as a car accident or fall

Symptoms of an ACL Tear

• A loud "pop" or snapping sound at the time of injury
• Severe pain and swelling in the knee
• Instability or feeling of the knee giving way
• Limited range of motion or stiffness in the knee

Diagnosis of an ACL Tear

Diagnosis typically involves a combination of:

• Physical examination, including the Lachman test and pivot shift test
• Imaging studies, such as X-rays or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

ACL Reconstruction Surgery

The goal of ACL reconstruction surgery is to restore knee stability and function. The procedure typically involves:

• Harvesting a graft from the patient's own tissue (autograft) or using donor tissue (allograft)
• Creating tunnels in the femur and tibia to accommodate the graft
• Securing the graft in place with screws, staples, or other fixation devices

Surgical Techniques

There are several surgical techniques used for ACL reconstruction, including:

• Patellar tendon autograft: using a piece of the patellar tendon as the graft
• Hamstring autograft: using a piece of the hamstring tendons as the graft
• Quadriceps tendon autograft: using a piece of the quadriceps tendon as the graft
• Allograft: using donor tissue as the graft

Post-Operative Rehabilitation

Rehabilitation after ACL reconstruction surgery typically involves:

• Pain management and swelling reduction
• Range of motion exercises to restore knee mobility
• Strengthening exercises to improve muscle function
• Agility and functional training to restore athletic performance

Risks and Complications

As with any surgical procedure, there are risks and potential complications associated with ACL reconstruction, including:

• Infection
• Bleeding or hematoma
• Nerve damage
• Graft failure or rejection
• Residual knee instability or stiffness

Outcomes and Prognosis

The outcome of ACL reconstruction surgery is generally excellent, with:

• High success rates for restoring knee stability and function
• Low complication rates when performed by experienced surgeons
• Most patients able to return to their pre-injury level of activity within 6-12 months