ACL reconstruction
Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Reconstruction: Medical Procedure and Overview
Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) reconstruction is a surgical procedure performed to restore stability and function to the knee after the ACL, a major ligament in the knee, is torn or ruptured. The ACL plays a crucial role in stabilizing the knee joint, and its injury often occurs during sports or activities that involve sudden stops, changes in direction, or direct trauma to the knee.
Procedure:
Preoperative Evaluation: Prior to surgery, the patient undergoes a thorough evaluation that includes a medical history review, physical examination, and imaging studies such as MRI to assess the extent of the ACL injury and any associated damage to the knee.
Anesthesia: The patient is typically placed under general anesthesia, which ensures they are asleep and pain-free during the surgery.
Graft Selection: During ACL reconstruction, a graft is used to replace the torn ACL. Graft options include autografts (using the patient’s own tissue) or allografts (using tissue from a donor). Common autograft sources are the patellar tendon, hamstring tendons, or quadriceps tendon.
Incisions: Small incisions are made around the knee joint to access the torn ACL and prepare the area for graft placement.
Graft Preparation: If an autograft is chosen, the surgeon harvests the graft tissue (e.g., patellar tendon) from the patient’s own body. The graft is prepared and sized appropriately for the individual patient.
Graft Placement: The surgeon drills tunnels into the bone at the attachment points of the ACL. The graft is threaded through these tunnels and secured in place using screws, sutures, or other fixation devices.
Tensioning: The graft is tensioned appropriately to mimic the function of the natural ACL. This step is crucial to restoring stability and proper knee mechanics.
Closure: Once the graft is secured, the incisions are closed using sutures or staples, and a sterile dressing is applied.
Recovery and Rehabilitation: After surgery, the patient begins a comprehensive rehabilitation program. Physical therapy focuses on regaining knee strength, range of motion, and stability. The timeline for returning to sports and activities varies based on the patient’s progress and the surgeon’s recommendations.
References:
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. (2014). Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Injuries. OrthoInfo. Retrieved from https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases–conditions/anterior-cruciate-ligament-acl-injuries/
Nwachukwu, B. U., & Allen, A. A. (2020). Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction. StatPearls. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK441966/
American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine. (2021). ACL Reconstruction. Retrieved from https://www.sportsmed.org/aossmimis/Members/Content/Practice-Resources/Peer-Review-Resources/ACL-Reconstruction.aspx
Mayo Clinic. (2021). ACL Injury. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/acl-injury/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350749
Please note that specific surgical techniques and rehabilitation protocols may vary based on individual patient factors and advancements in medical practice. Always consult with a qualified orthopedic surgeon for the most current and accurate information regarding ACL reconstruction.
Below are 8 Orthopaedic Surgeons that can assist with ACL reconstruction
Dr Chris McCready
Orthopaedic Surgeon
- Phone:011 647 3571
- Email:[email protected]
Dr Dimitri Dimitriou
Orthopaedic Surgeon
- Phone:013 745 7329
- Email:[email protected]
Dr. Hans Jacobs
Orthopaedic Surgeon
- Phone:+27(0)12 348 1238
- Email:[email protected]
Dr Neil Kruger
Specialist Hand, Wrist & Elbow Surgeon
- Phone:(021) 554 5533 / (021) 554 9489
- Email:[email protected]
Dr Harry Papagapiou
Specialist Orthopedic Surgeon
- Phone:+27 11 875 1930
- Email:[email protected]
Dr. Bradley Gelbart
ORTHOPAEDIC Surgeon
- Phone:011 485 1706
- Email:[email protected]
Dr Warren Matthee
Orthopaedic Surgery Specialist
- Phone:011 304 6784
- Email:%[email protected]
Dr Lipalo Mokete
Specialist Orthopaedic Surgeon
- Phone:+27 11 458 2137
- Email:Website form
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