ACL Reconstruction
If you need an ACL reconstruction, please Schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists as soon as possible.
What is an ACL Reconstruction?
Surgeons perform ACL reconstruction, a surgical procedure designed to repair a torn or ruptured anterior cruciate ligament in the knee. They initiate the procedure by making small incisions around the knee to access the damaged ligament. The torn ACL is then removed, and surgeons replace it with a graft. Physicians typically source this graft from the patient’s own hamstring tendon or patellar tendon or obtained from a donor.
Using specialized instruments, surgeons secure the graft in place, reconstructing the ACL to restore stability and function to the knee joint. Following surgery, patients undergo a period of immobilization and engage in rehabilitation to aid healing and regain strength. ACL reconstruction aims to restore knee stability, prevent further damage, and facilitate a return to normal activities, with improved function and reduced risk of future injuries.
ACL Surgery
Additionally, ACL surgery, also known as anterior cruciate ligament surgery, repairs a torn or ruptured ACL in the knee. Surgeons initiate the procedure by making small incisions around the knee to access the damaged ligament. They then remove the torn ACL and replace it with a graft, typically sourced from the patient’s own tendon (such as the hamstring or patellar tendon) or from a donor.
Using specialized surgical instruments, the surgeon secures the graft in place, reconstructing the ACL to restore stability and function to the knee joint. After surgery, patients undergo a period of immobilization followed by comprehensive rehabilitation. This rehabilitation regimen includes physical therapy sessions aimed at reducing swelling, restoring range of motion, and progressively strengthening the muscles around the knee.
The primary goals of ACL surgery are to restore the knee’s structural integrity, enhance stability, and facilitate a return to normal activities, including sports. Strict adherence to the prescribed rehabilitation program is essential for optimizing recovery and minimizing the risk of future knee injuries.
Benefits of an ACL Reconstruction
Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction restores knee stability after a torn ACL by replacing the damaged ligament with a tendon graft. Surgeons commonly use tissue from the patient’s patellar tendon, hamstring tendon, quadriceps tendon, or a donor graft to create a new ligament. The procedure helps stabilize the knee, supports normal movement, and allows patients to regain strength through rehabilitation.
Benefits of ACL reconstruction include:
- Restores knee stability during daily activities and sports
- Replaces a torn ACL with a strong tendon graft
- Reduces episodes of knee buckling or giving way
- Helps protect cartilage and other knee structures from additional injury
- Improves knee strength, function, and confidence with rehabilitation
- Promotes long-term joint stability and mobility
Recovery for an ACL Reconstruction
Recovery after ACL reconstruction requires patience, rehabilitation, and a gradual return to activity. Patients begin physical therapy soon after surgery to reduce swelling, restore knee movement, and rebuild strength. Surgeons often recommend using crutches and a knee brace during the early stages while the graft heals. As recovery progresses, patients advance through exercises that improve balance, flexibility, and stability before returning to higher-impact activities. Regular follow-up appointments help monitor healing, and consistent rehabilitation supports a safe return to work, sports, and daily activities over several months.
If you would like to speak to a Texas-Based Orthopedic Specialist, give us a call at 817-697-4038, or contact us online. Telemedicine appointments are also available.
