ACL Reconstruction

Overview

ACL Reconstruction is a surgical procedure performed to restore stability of the knee after an Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) tear. The ACL is a critical ligament that prevents the tibia from sliding forward and controls rotational stability of the knee.

ACL injuries are common in athletes and active individuals, especially in sports involving jumping, pivoting, sudden direction changes, and high-impact movements.

When the ACL is completely torn, it does not heal on its own and often requires surgical reconstruction to restore knee function and prevent long-term damage.

What Is ACL Reconstruction?

ACL reconstruction involves replacing the torn ligament with a graft. The damaged ACL is removed and a new ligament is created using:

Hamstring tendon graft
Patellar tendon graft
Quadriceps tendon graft
Occasionally allograft (donor tissue)

The graft is positioned anatomically and fixed securely to restore natural knee mechanics.

When Is ACL Surgery Required?

ACL reconstruction is recommended if you experience:

Knee instability or giving way
Recurrent knee buckling
Sports-related ACL tear
Associated meniscus injury
Young and active lifestyle
Desire to return to sports
Combined ligament injury

Without surgery, repeated instability can lead to cartilage damage and early arthritis.

Benefits of ACL Reconstruction

✅ Restores knee stability
✅ Prevents further meniscus damage
✅ Reduces risk of early arthritis
✅ Allows return to sports
✅ Improves confidence in movement
✅ Minimally invasive arthroscopic technique

Procedure – Step by Step

MRI confirmation and evaluation
Arthroscopic keyhole surgery
Removal of torn ligament remnants
Preparation of bone tunnels
Graft placement and fixation
Stability testing

Duration: 60–90 minutes

Recovery & Rehabilitation

Walking with support within 1–2 days
Physiotherapy starts immediately
Jogging: 3–4 months
Return to sports: 6–9 months
Full ligament strength: up to 1 year

Structured rehabilitation is essential for successful recovery.