ACL Reconstruction

ACL Reconstruction Surgery – Restoring Knee Strength and Stability
ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) reconstruction is a specialized surgical procedure aimed at restoring knee stability and function after a ligament tear. The ACL is one of the primary ligaments in the knee that provides stability during movement—especially in sports and high-impact activities.
A torn ACL cannot heal on its own, and surgical reconstruction is often necessary for active individuals or those experiencing knee instability. Whether you’re an athlete eager to return to the field or someone looking to regain everyday mobility, ACL surgery offers a path to recovery and confidence.
Understanding ACL Injuries
The ACL is frequently injured due to:
•Sudden changes in direction
•Twisting motions
•Falls or direct trauma
•Sports like football, basketball, or volleyball
When torn, the knee may feel unstable or “give way,” especially during activity. ACL tears don’t usually heal without surgical intervention, particularly in young or active individuals.
What Happens During ACL Reconstruction Surgery?
ACL reconstruction typically involves replacing the damaged ligament rather than simply repairing it. The surgery is performed using a minimally invasive arthroscopic technique, which involves small incisions and a camera-guided procedure.
Here’s an overview of the steps:
- Graft Selection
- A new ligament is created using a graft, which serves as a foundation for your body to regenerate ligament tissue. The graft can be:
- Autograft – from your own hamstring or patellar tendon
- Allograft – donor tissue, used in selected cases
- Tunnel Creation
- Precise tunnels are drilled in the thigh bone (femur) and shin bone (tibia) to place the graft exactly where the original ACL was located.
- Graft Fixation
- The graft is secured using screws, buttons, or fixation devices. Over time, it integrates with your natural tissue, becoming strong and functional.
- Wound Closure
- Small incisions are closed with sutures or surgical tape, resulting in minimal scarring and faster healing.
Surgery Duration and Anesthesia
The procedure usually takes 1 to 2 hours.
Performed under general or spinal anesthesia to ensure complete comfort.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Recovery is a gradual, well-structured process. A customized rehabilitation program begins shortly after surgery, with close coordination between the surgeon and physiotherapy team.
Typical recovery milestones include:
- First few weeks: Pain control, swelling reduction, and gentle movement exercises
- 6–12 weeks: Strength and balance training
- 3–6 months: Advanced rehabilitation for functional activities
- 6–12 months: Return to sports or high-impact tasks (varies by individual progress)
Goals of ACL Reconstruction
- Restore knee stability
- Prevent further joint damage
- Return to active lifestyle or sports
- Reduce risk of meniscal or cartilage injuries