What is ACL Reconstruction Surgery?
ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) reconstruction surgery is a procedure performed to repair or replace a torn ACL in the knee joint. The ACL is a crucial ligament that stabilises the knee, and injury to it is common among athletes and individuals engaged in physical activities involving sudden stops or changes in direction.
During ACL reconstruction surgery, the torn ligament is replaced with a graft, typically taken from the patient's own hamstring tendon, quads tendon or patellar tendon. The surgery is usually performed arthroscopically, using small incisions and a camera (arthroscope) to guide the surgeon. After preparing the graft, it is secured in place using screws or other fixation devices to recreate the ACL and restore stability to the knee joint.
Dr Shales will discuss graft options with you and together you will decide on the best option for you.
Before undergoing ACL reconstruction surgery, Dr Shales will conduct a thorough evaluation of your knee, including imaging studies like MRI scans. You may need to stop certain medications and avoid eating or drinking for a period before surgery. It's essential to follow your surgeon's instructions regarding preoperative preparation to ensure a smooth surgical experience.
In the lead up to surgery it is important to keep your muscles conditioned, your range of motion preserved and reduce the swelling within the knee. If there are concerns with any of this Dr Shales may recommend a period of pre-habilitation in the lead up to surgery.
Following ACL reconstruction surgery, you will likely experience pain, swelling, and stiffness in your knee. You may need to use crutches and wear a knee brace for support. Physical therapy will be an integral part of your recovery process, helping to restore strength, flexibility, and range of motion in your knee. It's crucial to adhere to your rehabilitation program and follow your surgeon's postoperative instructions for optimal recovery.
Rehabilitation after ACL reconstruction surgery typically involves a progressive program of exercises aimed at strengthening the muscles around the knee, improving joint mobility, and gradually returning to normal activities and sports. Your physiotherapist will tailor a rehabilitation plan to suit your individual needs and goals, guiding you through each stage of recovery.
Arthroscopic ACL Reconstruction is a relatively safe surgery but risks and complications can happen. These may include:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Blood clots
- Knee stiffness
- Graft failure
- Nerve or blood vessel damage
- Persistent pain or instability
ACL reconstruction surgery aims to restore stability and function to the knee following an ACL injury. The success of the procedure and the outcomes experienced by patients can vary depending on various factors, including the severity of the injury, surgical technique, rehabilitation protocol, and individual patient characteristics. Here are some common outcomes associated with ACL reconstruction:
1. Improved Knee Stability: One of the primary goals of ACL reconstruction is to restore stability to the knee joint. Following successful surgery and rehabilitation, many patients experience improved stability during activities that involve cutting, pivoting, and sudden changes in direction.
2. Reduced Risk of Further Injury: ACL reconstruction surgery can help reduce the risk of further damage to the knee joint. By restoring the integrity of the ACL, patients are less likely to experience recurrent episodes of instability and subsequent injuries to other structures within the knee.
3. Pain Relief: For many patients, ACL tears can cause significant pain and discomfort. By addressing the underlying injury through surgery, patients often experience relief from pain associated with ACL instability.
4. Functional Improvement: Following a comprehensive rehabilitation program, patients typically regain functional abilities such as walking, climbing stairs, and participating in activities of daily living. With time and dedicated rehabilitation, many patients also regain the ability to return to sports and recreational activities.
5. Long-Term Knee Health: ACL reconstruction surgery aims to promote long-term knee health and function. While some patients may experience wear and tear on the knee joint over time, proper rehabilitation and activity modification can help minimize the risk of degenerative changes and osteoarthritis in the future.
6. Patient Satisfaction: Studies have shown that the majority of patients who undergo ACL reconstruction surgery report high levels of satisfaction with the outcomes. Successful surgery and rehabilitation often lead to improved quality of life and the ability to resume an active lifestyle.
It's important to note that individual outcomes can vary, and not all patients may achieve the same level of success following ACL reconstruction surgery. Your surgeon will provide personalised guidance and support throughout the surgical process and recovery to help maximise the likelihood of a positive outcome.
In summary, ACL reconstruction surgery offers a promising solution for restoring knee stability and function after an ACL injury. While individual experiences may vary, with diligent rehabilitation and adherence to postoperative care, patients can anticipate a return to an active lifestyle with improved quality of life. Collaboration between patients and healthcare providers is key to achieving successful outcomes and realising the full potential of this surgical intervention.
Here are a number of the questions we often get asked.
If you have ongoing instability of the knee or wish to return to sports and activities that requires pivoting, twisting and change of direction then it is strongly recommended you have an ACL reconstruction. There are some circumstances where opting for non-surgical management may be reasonable. Dr Shales will discuss all options with you after a thorough history and examination of your knee.
There are a number of graft options when having an ACL reconstruction. The most common is a Hamstring graft but others include Quads tendon and Patella-tendon-bone. Each have their pros and cons and Dr Shales will go through these options with you when discussing your surgical plan.
