ACL Reconstruction Surgery

1. Anesthesia: The procedure is performed under general anesthesia or regional anesthesia (such as a spinal block) to ensure the patient is comfortable and pain-free.
2. Incision and Insertion: Small incisions are made around the knee, and the arthroscope is inserted through one of these incisions. Other specialized instruments are inserted through additional small incisions.
3. Repair or Reconstruction: The surgeon uses the arthroscope to visualize the damaged ACL and performs the necessary repair or reconstruction. This often involves replacing the torn ACL with a graft, which can be taken from the patient’s own tissue (autograft) or from a donor (allograft).
4. Closure: Once the repair is complete, the incisions are closed with sutures or adhesive strips, and the knee is bandaged.

After the surgery, the patient is moved to a recovery area where they are monitored as the anesthesia wears off. Pain is managed with medication, and physical therapy is often started soon after to promote healing and restore knee function.

Physical therapy is a crucial component of recovery. It begins with gentle range-of-motion exercises and progresses to strengthening exercises as the knee heals. Adhering to the physical therapy program is essential for optimal recovery and regaining full function.

Patients should follow their surgeon’s guidelines for gradually resuming activities. Light activities and low-impact exercises can typically be resumed within a few weeks, while high-impact sports or strenuous activities may be restricted for several months.

Regular follow-up appointments with the surgeon are important to monitor the healing process and adjust the rehabilitation plan as needed. Patients should be vigilant about any signs of complications, such as persistent pain, swelling, or instability.