ACL Reconstruction Surgery

Contents

Overview of the Procedure

ACL reconstruction surgery is a procedure to replace a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in the knee with a tissue graft. The ACL is one of the major ligaments in your knee that connects your thighbone (femur) to your shinbone (tibia) and helps stabilize your knee joint. At KLSMC, our orthopaedic surgeons perform this procedure using advanced arthroscopic techniques, which are minimally invasive and promote faster recovery.

During the surgery, the surgeon makes small incisions around your knee and inserts a tiny camera (arthroscope) to view the inside of the joint. The damaged ACL is removed, and the surgeon creates tunnels in the bone to bring the graft through. The graft is then secured with screws or other fixation devices. This new tissue serves as a scaffold for new ligament tissue to grow upon.

Graft Options

Autograft

In this technique, the surgeon uses tissue from your own body to create the new ACL. Common autograft sources include:

Patellar Tendon Graft: Tissue taken from the middle third of the patellar tendon, along with small pieces of bone at each end
Hamstring Tendon Graft: Uses portions of the hamstring tendons from the back of the thigh
Quadriceps Tendon Graft: Uses the central portion of the quadriceps tendon, sometimes with a small piece of bone from the kneecap

Allograft

This technique uses tissue from a deceased donor that has been carefully screened and processed. Allografts eliminate the need to harvest tissue from your own body, reducing surgical time and post-operative pain at the harvest site.

Synthetic Grafts

Although less common, some synthetic materials or a combination of synthetic and biological tissues may be used in specific situations.

At KLSMC, our surgeons will recommend the most appropriate graft option based on your specific needs, activity level, and medical history.

What Happens After the ACL Reconstruction?

After surgery, you will be admitted for observation. Your knee will be bandaged, and you’ll likely have a brace or splint to protect the graft. Crutches will help you move while limiting weight-bearing as instructed by your surgeon.

Pain management is a priority in the immediate post-operative period. Your surgeon will prescribe medications to help control pain and may recommend ice therapy to reduce swelling. Physical therapy typically begins the next day to start regaining range of motion and preventing stiffness.

Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your healing progress, remove any non-dissolving sutures, and adjust your rehabilitation program as needed.

What Are the Benefits / Risks of ACL Reconstruction?

Benefits:

Improved Stability: Restores stability to the knee, reducing the sensation of “giving way”
Return to Activities: Allows most patients to return to sports and active lifestyles
Prevention of Further Damage: Reduces the risk of additional injuries to the meniscus and cartilage
Long-term Joint Protection: May help prevent early onset of arthritis by restoring proper knee mechanics
Improved Quality of Life: Enables participation in everyday activities without fear of knee instability

Risks:

Infection: Though uncommon, surgical site infections can occur
Blood Clots: Deep vein thrombosis is a potential complication of knee surgery
Graft Failure: The new ligament can re-tear, particularly if rehabilitation is inadequate
Stiffness: Some patients experience limited range of motion after surgery
Numbness: Temporary or permanent numbness around the incision sites
Persistent Pain: Some patients may have ongoing pain or discomfort
Hardware Problems: Rarely, the screws or other devices used to secure the graft may cause irritation

How Long Is the Recovery Period from ACL Reconstruction?

Full recovery from ACL reconstruction typically takes 6-9 months, though individual healing times vary. The recovery journey can be divided into several phases:

Phase 1 (1-2 weeks): Focus on controlling swelling, regaining range of motion, and protecting the graft. You’ll use crutches and a brace during this phase.
Phase 2 (2-6 weeks): Gradually increasing range of motion and beginning basic strengthening exercises. Most patients transition away from crutches during this phase.
Phase 3 (6-12 weeks): Progressive strengthening with emphasis on regaining normal walking pattern and improving single-leg stability.
Phase 4 (3-6 months): Advanced strengthening, beginning sport-specific training, and functional exercises.
Phase 5 (6-9 months): Return to sport activities after passing functional tests and receiving clearance from your surgeon.

At KLSMC, our sports medicine specialists and physical therapists work closely together to customize your rehabilitation program based on your specific needs and goals.

What Can You Do to Help Recovery After ACL Reconstruction?

Follow Rehabilitation Protocol: Adhere to your prescribed physical therapy program, which is crucial for optimal recovery
Manage Swelling: Use ice therapy and elevation as recommended to control swelling
Wear Your Brace: Use the knee brace as instructed by your surgeon
Gradual Progression: Avoid rushing the recovery process or skipping phases of rehabilitation
Maintain a Healthy Diet: Proper nutrition supports tissue healing and recovery
Stay Hydrated: Adequate hydration is essential for tissue repair
Monitor for Complications: Report any unusual symptoms such as excessive pain, swelling, or warmth to your healthcare provider
Be Patient: Understand that healing occurs gradually, and following the recommended timeline reduces re-injury risk
Maintain Overall Fitness: Work on maintaining cardiovascular fitness with approved activities that don’t stress the knee
Mental Preparation: Maintain a positive mindset and set realistic expectations for recovery milestones

Next Steps

If you’ve suffered a knee injury and suspect an ACL tear, or if you’ve been diagnosed and are considering surgical options, here’s how to proceed at KLSMC:

Schedule a Consultation: Contact our appointment line at +603-2096 1033 or book through our website to arrange an evaluation with one of our orthopaedic specialists.
Prepare for Your Visit:
a. Bring any previous imaging studies (X-rays, MRIs) and medical records
b. Make a list of medications you’re currently taking
c. Note all symptoms and how the injury occurred
d. Prepare questions about the procedure, recovery, and return to activities
Assessment Process: Your initial consultation will include a thorough physical examination and review of your medical history. If not already completed, diagnostic imaging such as an MRI may be ordered to confirm the diagnosis and assess for additional injuries.
Pre-Surgical Planning: If ACL reconstruction is recommended, our team will discuss graft options, surgical approach, and set realistic expectations for recovery and return to activities.
Financial Considerations: Our patient care coordinators can provide information about procedure costs, insurance coverage, and payment options.

Taking the first step toward ACL reconstruction at KLSMC puts you on the path to reclaiming an active lifestyle with a stable knee. Our experienced surgical team and comprehensive rehabilitation program are designed to guide you through every stage of recovery.

FAQ

How do I know if I have torn my ACL?

Common symptoms include a popping sound at the time of injury, rapid swelling, pain, instability, or a feeling of the knee “giving way” during movement. However, a proper diagnosis requires evaluation by an orthopaedic specialist, typically including an MRI scan to confirm the tear and check for associated injuries.

Will I need to wear a brace after surgery?

Yes, most patients will need to wear a knee brace for protection during the initial recovery period. The type of brace and duration of use varies depending on your specific procedure and surgeon preference. Some patients may also benefit from a functional ACL brace when returning to sports activities.

When can I return to sports after ACL reconstruction?

Return to sports typically occurs between 9- 12 months after surgery, depending on individual recovery progress. Before returning to full sports participation, you must meet specific criteria including: full range of motion, adequate strength (compared to the uninjured leg), successful completion of functional testing, and clearance from your surgeon.

Will I need to use crutches after surgery?

Yes, most patients will use crutches for the first 6 weeks after surgery. Your surgeon will provide specific instructions about weight-bearing status and when you can transition away from crutches based on your individual recovery progress.

What can I do to reduce the risk of re-tearing my ACL after reconstruction?

Completing the full rehabilitation program is essential. Additional preventive measures include: participating in neuromuscular training programs, proper warm-up before activities, maintaining good overall fitness and muscle strength, using proper technique during sports movements, and possibly wearing a functional knee brace during high-risk activities