An ACL tear is a common knee injury that can be caused by sudden stops, jumping, or changes in direction, especially in athletes. The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is a band of tissue that connects the thighbone to the shinbone in the knee joint. It helps stabilize the knee joint and prevent the shinbone from sliding forward. When the ACL tears, the knee can become unstable, leading to pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the joint.
If you have an ACL tear, your orthopedic surgeon may suggest surgery to repair the damage. Surgery is not always necessary, and conservative treatment, such as physical therapy, may be enough to restore natural movement and function of the knee. However, surgery may be necessary if you are an athlete who wants to return to sports that involve knee movement, have a high level of physical activity that requires knee stability, have a complete ACL tear, have more than one ligament injury, or have significant instability or laxity in the knee joint.
Types of ACL Surgery
There are two main types of surgery for an ACL tear: ACL reconstruction and ACL repair.
ACL Reconstruction
ACL reconstruction is the most common type of surgery for a torn ACL. During an ACL reconstruction, the surgeon replaces the damaged ligament with a graft made from a tendon or ligament from another part of your body or from a donor. The graft is then fixed in place using screws or other devices. The new graft will eventually grow into a new ACL over time, restoring stability to the knee joint.
ACL Repair
In some cases, the surgeon may be able to repair the torn ACL using sutures or other devices. This is only possible if the tear is small and the ligament is still attached to the bone. ACL repair is less common than ACL reconstruction, but it may be a good option for some patients.
What to Expect During ACL Surgery
ACL surgery is usually done under general anesthesia, which means you will be asleep during the procedure. The surgery itself takes about an hour or two to complete, and you will likely spend some time in a recovery room before being transferred to your hospital room or sent home.
After the surgery, you will need to wear a knee brace and use crutches for a few weeks. Physical therapy will also be an essential part of your recovery. Your physical therapist will help you regain strength, flexibility, and range of motion in your knee joint.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Recovery from ACL surgery can take several months, and it is essential to be patient and follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. The first few weeks after surgery are the most critical, and you will need to rest and avoid putting too much weight on your knee. Your doctor will likely prescribe pain medication to help manage any discomfort you may have.
After a few weeks, you will begin physical therapy to help you regain strength and range of motion in your knee. Your physical therapist will create a personalized rehabilitation plan for you based on your specific needs and goals. You will likely need to attend physical therapy sessions several times a week for several months.
As you progress through your rehabilitation, you will gradually increase your activity level. You may be able to start walking without crutches after a few weeks, and you may be able to return to some light activities after a few months. However, it can take up to a year or more to fully recover from ACL surgery and return to your previous level of activity.
Risks and Complications
As with any surgery, there are risks and complications associated with ACL surgery. These may include infection, bleeding, nerve damage, blood clots, and complications related to anesthesia. Your doctor will discuss these risks with you before the surgery and work to minimize them as much as possible.
Benefits of Surgery
The benefits of ACL surgery can be significant. Surgery can help restore stability and function to your knee joint, allowing you to return to your normal activities. For athletes, surgery may be necessary to return to sports that involve knee movement. Surgery can also prevent further damage to the knee joint, such as meniscus tears, which can occur when the knee is unstable.
Non-Surgical Treatment
Non-surgical treatment may be an option for some ACL tears. Conservative treatment, such as physical therapy, can help strengthen the surrounding muscles and stabilize the knee joint. Bracing may also be used to provide support to the knee. However, non-surgical treatment may not be enough for athletes or individuals with high levels of physical activity.
Conclusion
Surgery for a torn ACL can help restore stability and function to your knee joint, allowing you to return to your normal activities. However, it is essential to weigh the benefits and risks of surgery carefully. Talk to your orthopedic surgeon to determine if surgery is the right option for you. If surgery is necessary, follow your doctor’s instructions carefully and be patient during your recovery. With time and effort, you can regain strength and function in your knee and return to the activities you love.
