ACL Reconstruction
Summary
ACL reconstruction is a surgical procedure to reconstruct a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in the knee. The ACL is a vital ligament that helps stabilize the knee joint.
Procedure
Arthroscopic surgery: This minimally invasive technique involves small incisions and a tiny camera to view inside the knee joint.
Grafting: The damaged ACL is removed and replaced with a tissue graft from a tendon elsewhere around the knee. This graft can be harvested from the patient's own body (autograft) or from a deceased donor (allograft). Common autograft sources include the quad tendon, hamstring tendons, or the patellar tendon.
Graft placement: The graft is secured to the bone on both sides of the knee joint using special techniques like screws or buttons.
Recovery
Post-operative: Outpatient procedure, patients are discharged same day. Surgery usually 45-90 minutes depending on concomitant meniscal pathology
Physical therapy: A comprehensive rehabilitation program is essential for regaining strength, flexibility, and stability in the knee. This may involve exercises, bracing, and other modalities. PT begins day after surgery and will continue for about 9 months after surgery
Return to activity: The timeline for returning to sports and other activities varies depending on individual factors. At 5 months post op, patients have usually returned to all activities with the exception of sports. Return to sport is usually at 9 months post op.
Outcomes: 90% of patients return to near-normal knee joint function and 81% return to sport after surgery.
ACL Graft Options
