Knee Specialties ACL Reconstruction

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ACL Reconstruction Overview

Tear of the anterior cruciate ligament (commonly called the ACL) commonly occurs in an athletic population. ACL Reconstruction is the gold standard to restore stability and improve function following injury.

Why ACL Reconstruction?

An intact ACL is critically important to provide knee stability for patients engaging in cutting/pivoting type activities. Without an ACL, the knee joint may “give way” or “buckle”, putting other structures (i.e. meniscus, cartilage) at high risk of injury.

Who Should Have an ACL Reconstruction?

Higher demand patients, especially athletes engaged in cutting/pivoting sport, require surgery to regain knee stability and to improve function. Patients engaging in lower impact activities only (i.e. biking, jogging) may not require surgical reconstruction.

What Can I Expect From an ACL Reconstruction?

ACL reconstruction is an outpatient procedure that takes approximately two hours to perform. Other ligaments, meniscus, or cartilage may need treatment during the same procedure. Patients have an initial period of protection using crutches/brace for 4-6 weeks. Post-op rehabilitation is performed 2-3x/week for several months. Return to activity and sport is INDIVIDUALIZED and is based on both minimum time from surgery (ie 6 months) and, more importantly, functional progression with rehabilitation.