Ligament Reconstruction

What is Anterior Cruciate Ligament Surgery?

Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) surgery is a surgical procedure performed to reconstruct a torn or damaged ACL in the knee. The ACL is one of the major ligaments in the knee that helps stabilize the joint and prevents excessive forward movement of the tibia (shin bone) relative to the femur (thigh bone). ACL injuries are common, especially among athletes involved in sports that require quick changes in direction or jumping.

benefits of ligament reconstruction;

• Restored Knee Stability: ACL reconstruction restores the stability of the knee joint that is compromised after an ACL tear, reducing the risk of further injuries and promoting safer movement.

• Improved Knee Function: The procedure aims to restore normal knee mechanics, allowing for better joint movement and function during physical activities and sports.

• Prevention of Further Damage: Repairing the torn ACL can prevent additional damage to other knee structures that may occur due to the instability caused by the injury.

• Reduced Risk of Secondary Injuries: ACL tears can lead to secondary injuries in the knee, such as meniscus tears and cartilage damage. Reconstruction reduces the risk of these related injuries.

• Quicker Return to Physical Activities: ACL reconstruction, followed by proper rehabilitation, can allow individuals to return to sports and other physical activities more quickly compared to non-surgical treatments.

What are the top 5 Orthopedic Surgery hospitals in India?

• Manipal Hospitals

• Max Hospital

• Apollo Hospital

• BLK Hospital

• Jaypee Hospital

Pre-Procedure

• • Patient evaluation: The surgeon will conduct a thorough evaluation of the knee, including physical examination and imaging tests (MRI) to confirm the ACL tear and assess other potential knee injuries.

  • Planning: The surgeon will discuss the surgical options, graft choices, and the expected recovery process with the patient.

Procedure

• • Anesthesia: The surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia or regional anesthesia, which numbs the lower half of the body.

  • Arthroscopy: The surgeon makes small incisions around the knee and inserts an arthroscope (a thin, flexible camera) to visualize the inside of the knee joint.

  • Graft Harvesting: The surgeon harvests the graft from the patient's own body (often the patellar tendon or hamstring tendon) or uses a donor graft.

  • Graft Placement: The surgeon removes the damaged ACL and replaces it with the graft, which is secured to the bones using screws, staples, or other fixation devices.

  • Wound Closure: The incisions are closed with sutures or adhesive strips.

Post-Procedure

• • Recovery: After the surgery, patients will typically need to use crutches and wear a knee brace for a period recommended by the surgeon.

  • Physical Therapy: Rehabilitation and physical therapy are essential for strengthening the knee, restoring range of motion, and improving stability.

  • Return to Activities: The timing for returning to sports and other activities varies depending on the patient's progress and the surgeon's advice.