ACL Reconstruction

The Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL)is an internal ligament of the knee. It is crucial in providing stability to the knee during activities like turning, pivoting, etc. Among players associated with sports like football, skiing, basketball, etc, a torn or injured ACL is the most common knee injury. A surgical arthroscopic ACL repair or reconstruction is generally preferred for such injuries. However, non-surgical treatment is also possible in a some patients.

Causes of ACL injury

Most of the ACL injuries occur in sports like soccer, basketball, wrestling etc. This can happen due to awkward landing from a jump, uncontrolled pivoting, stopping or turning suddenly. On many occasions there is a pop felt or heard by the player indicating tearing of the ligament. Direct impact due to collision with other players or falling can also cause ACL injuries. Sometimes this ligament injury can also occur during road traffic accidents.

Symptoms of ACL injury

Most patients experience severe pain and swelling in the injured knee and find it difficult to continue playing post injury. There may be a feeling of instability in the knee (give way) while walking. If the initial injury goes unnoticed then later on one finds it difficult to do activities involving sudden change in direction, and there are frequent episodes of knee giving way while attempting sporting and other recreational activities. There is continued pain and swelling in the knee and one usually feels weakness in the involved limb.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Clinical examination of the knee gives a fair idea about ACL tears and associated injuries of other ligaments and cartilage. A MRI scan is usually required to confirm the diagnosis.
A completely torn ACL ligament is best treated by arthroscopic ligament reconstruction surgery which is minimally invasive and hence post surgical pain is minimal and recovery is fast. In a few cases the original ligament can also be repaired. If there are any cartilage injuries also they can be managed during the same procedure. The usual hospitalisation time for the procedure is a 1 day and in some patients may extend to another day. A simple post acl surgery rehabilitation is required which the patients can usually manage on their own or under supervision of a physiotherapist.

Dr. Anubhav Gulati and Dr. Prince Gupta , have brought resolve to all your orthopaedic plights through joint and bone solutions. The latest technology and high-quality facilities ensure a pleasant experience and successful treatment. Dedicated staff and extensive experience of the surgeons assure quality treatment and excellent outcomes. We ensure exceptional care and improved life post-surgery.