What is ACL Reconstruction Surgery? Is ACL Reconstruction a Major Surgery?
As an orthopedic doctor, I talk to many patients who have suffered injuries, especially tears of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tends to be a concern. (ACL) seems to be a major issue.. A tear in this ligament commonly results in the knee becoming weak and unstable. Torn ligaments often feel and even the most basic movements walking, running, and stair climbing become hard to do.
As compared to other, more traditional ACL treatments, I find ACL reconstruction surgery to be one of the most effective procedures. From the very first ACL tear I treated to the many I have managed since, I can confidently say that the majority of patients are able to return to a healthy and active lifestyle. With the right care, treatment, and rehabilitation, excellent results are possible especially when guided by the best orthopedic surgeon for ACL reconstruction.
In this blog, I discuss the details of ACL reconstruction surgery and its importance. I also explore the fundamental ACL surgeries and the steps that are taken during the procedure. I also focus on the recovery period, the timelines, and the practical suggestions that I offer to assist in quicker recovery.
What is ACL Reconstruction Surgery?
The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) which is situated in the middle of the knee joint helps in stabilizing the knee while in motion during activities such as twisting, pivoting, and even during jumping. ACL tears are common in football players and athletes who play basketball, cricket, and other sports in which sudden pivoting occurs. In ACL tears, the ligament may also be torn in other situations such as accidents, tumbles, and other day to day activities.
The ACL is considered fully torn in situations when the knee becomes unstable, during which the knee is said to ‘give way’, and is noted to move freely. In the case of torn ligament knee surgery, the most preferred method of treatment during such circumstances is referred to as ACL reconstruction surgery.
The ligament is replaced in this case with a graft, which serves as the new ligament. The graft is considered to be taken still from the patient (autograft) or in case the patient is found not to be suitable, a graft may be taken from a donor (allograft). Natural ligaments act as stabilizers when integrated into the knee over long periods of time as the graft does after which the knee is said to be restored in stability and strength.
Is ACL Reconstruction a Major Surgery?
One of the most common questions I receive from patients is, “Doctor, is ACL reconstruction a major surgery?”
The medical answer is yes, ACL reconstruction is a major surgery since it requires anesthesia, surgical reconstruction and grafting. Let me explain.
In the past, ACL reconstructions required large surgical incisions and long recovery times. Nowadays, because of the technology we have available, I perform ACL knee surgery using an arthroscopic technique. This means small incisions (usually around one centimeter) where I use a camera (arthroscope) to guide my surgery. The advantages to the patient is less pain, smaller scars, and faster healing with great long-term outcomes.
So yes, technically it is a major surgery, but I reassured my patients that it is safe, routine, and highly successful when done in the hands of a skilled surgeon.
Types of ACL Surgery
There are different methods of ACL surgical procedure. I consider the patient’s activity level, degree of activity, and health overall before recommending the best method.
Autograft ACL Surgery:
The graft is taken from the patient’s own tissues, usually patellar or hamstring tendons. This is the most common and effective method.
Allograft ACL surgery:
The graft is taken from a donor. This may be useful for revision surgery, or if the patient does not want to use their own tendon.
As well, because grafts from natural tissue get better long-term outcomes vs synthetic ligaments, synthetic grafts are seldom used in modern treatment methods.
Each method has pros and cons. Based on a patient’s injury and activity level, we orthopedic surgeons will customize the method that is best for you.
ACL Surgery Procedure
According to reports, the ACL surgical procedure involves the use of either general or spinal anaesthesia, and, depending on the case it takes anywhere between 1 to 2 hours to be completed. The following steps of the procedure:
- Small incisions are made around the knee.
- An arthroscope (small camera) is inserted to view the joint on a screen.
- The torn ligament is carefully removed.
- A donor or your own tendon can be used to make a new graft.
- The graft is positioned in the place of the old ligament.
- Screws or fixation devices are used to secure the graft.
Most of my patients are surprised to know that this torn ligament knee surgery is usually a day-care procedure. In many cases, patients are able to go home the same day after a short period of observation.
ACL Surgery Recovery Time
The next big inquiry that patients frequently ask is: “How long will it take me to rehabilitate after ACL surgery?”
The reality is that ACL surgery recovery timelines vary based on a variety of factors, such as age, fitness level, and adherence to your own rehabilitation program. On average, the recovery timeline follows the structure below:
- 2 weeks – rest, ice, reduce swelling, and light movement
- 6 to 12 weeks – physiotherapy becomes more active and focuses on restoring strength, balance, and flexibility
- 6 months – post-surgery, most people are back to handling daily tasks comfortably and pain-free.
- 9 to 12 months – interactive athletes and physically active people are able to safely return to their sport.
Remember that recovery is not only a measure of time – but also a measure of quality.
Successful rehabilitation after ACL knee surgery depends on strict adherence to physiotherapy; hard work; patience; and consistency.
Tips for Faster Recovery
Based on my experience, here are some practical ways to facilitate recovery after ACL reconstruction surgery:
- Commit to physiotherapy sessions and don’t skip.
- Don’t play heavy sports or partake in exercise until I tell you your ready.
- Use ice therapy in the first few weeks to help reduce swelling.
- Eat healthy and follow a good diet that is rich in protein to help with healing.
- Reach out for your follow-ups at set interval visits, which gives me the opportunity to track your progress.
Recovery is a process. I always tell my patients, patience and discipline are as much a part of the recovery process as is your surgery.
Conclusion
A torn ACL can change your ability to play sports and live a healthy and active life. The good news is ACL reconstruction surgery has proven to be a successful treatment to restore good strength, stability and confidence to return to living life to the fullest. After a ligament injury, the most important thing you can do for yourself is find the best orthopedic surgeon to perform your ACL reconstruction. After receiving your treatment and going through rehabilitation, being able to add things back into your physical life becomes a reality.
As Dr. Khaleelulla, throughout my career I have performed many ACL surgery procedures and have had the honour to put many of my patients back on the path to active, pain-free living. My role as the best orthopedic surgeon for ACL reconstruction is not only to perform the procedure but also to support you through the entire process of recovery. As part of the total experience, we also schedule physiotherapy and rehabilitation consultations to ensure a smooth and complete recovery after your ACL treatment.
In addition to ACL management, I also offer specialty care in:
- Joint Replacement
- Arthroscopy
- Arthritis & Rheumatology
- General Orthopedics
- Accident & Fracture Care
- Pediatric Orthopedics
- Physiotherapy & Rehab
If you are dealing with knee instability or suspect you might have an ACL tear, I urge you to come and see me. With the proper treatment, rehab, and support, it is always possible to recover and return to a position of strength and active living.
