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ACL Reconstruction Surgery in India

Surgical reconstruction of torn anterior cruciate ligament using graft

Overview

ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) Reconstruction is a surgical procedure to repair a torn ACL in the knee, one of the most common sports-related injuries. The ACL is a critical ligament that stabilizes the knee joint and prevents excessive forward movement of the tibia (shin bone) relative to the femur (thigh bone). When torn, it cannot heal on its own and requires surgical reconstruction for athletes and active individuals who want to return to sports. At Arthoscenter, Dr. Gurudeo Kumar specializes in advanced arthroscopic ACL reconstruction techniques with over 800 successful procedures. Our facility uses state-of-the-art arthroscopic equipment and offers multiple graft options including hamstring autograft, patellar tendon autograft, and allograft reconstruction to provide the best outcomes tailored to each patient's needs. During ACL reconstruction, the torn ligament is replaced with a graft (tissue substitute) that serves as scaffolding for new ligament growth. The surgery is performed arthroscopically through small incisions, which means less pain, smaller scars, and faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery. The graft is secured to the femur and tibia using specialized surgical screws or fixation devices. The success rate of ACL reconstruction exceeds 90%, and most athletes can return to sports within 6-12 months with proper rehabilitation. Dr. Gurudeo Kumar works closely with sports physiotherapists to develop individualized rehabilitation programs that ensure safe and successful return to athletic activities.

Symptoms & Indications

This surgery may be recommended if you experience:

Loud "pop" sound at the time of injury

Severe pain and inability to continue activity

Rapid swelling of the knee within hours

Loss of range of motion in the knee

Feeling of instability or knee "giving way" during activities

Tenderness along the joint line

Difficulty bearing weight on the affected leg

Discomfort while walking or changing directions

Positive Lachman test or anterior drawer test

MRI confirmation of ACL tear (partial or complete)

Procedure Details

Duration

1-2 hours

Anesthesia

General or Spinal Anesthesia

Preparation for Surgery

Pre-operative MRI to confirm ACL tear and assess associated injuries. Physical therapy to reduce swelling and restore range of motion before surgery. Discussion of graft options (autograft vs allograft).

Surgical Steps

1

General or spinal anesthesia is administered

2

Small arthroscopic portals (incisions) are made around the knee

3

The knee joint is examined with an arthroscope camera

4

The torn ACL remnants are removed

5

Bone tunnels are drilled in the femur and tibia

6

The graft is harvested (hamstring or patellar tendon) or prepared if using allograft

7

The graft is passed through the bone tunnels

8

The graft is secured with interference screws, buttons, or other fixation devices

9

The graft tension and knee stability are tested

10

Arthroscopic portals are closed with sutures and sterile dressing applied

Recovery Timeline

What to expect during your recovery journey

Week 1-2

Immediate Post-Op

Rest, ice, elevation. Knee brace and crutches. Gentle range of motion exercises. Focus on reducing swelling and pain management.

Week 3-6

Early Rehabilitation

Progressive weight-bearing. Continued ROM exercises. Quad strengthening. Stationary bike exercise. Gradual weaning off crutches.

Week 6-12

Strengthening Phase

Advanced strengthening exercises. Balance and proprioception training. Light jogging on treadmill. Return to non-impact activities.

Month 3-6

Advanced Rehabilitation

Sport-specific drills. Agility training. Plyometric exercises. Gradual return to running and cutting movements.

Month 6-12

Return to Sports

Functional testing and clearance. Gradual return to competitive sports. Continued strengthening and injury prevention exercises.

Tips for Faster Recovery

Wear knee brace as directed by surgeon

Attend all physical therapy sessions religiously

Ice the knee regularly to reduce swelling

Do not rush the rehabilitation timeline

Gradually progress through rehab phases

Avoid pivoting and twisting movements initially

Strengthen the quadriceps and hamstrings equally

Get clearance from surgeon before returning to sports

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this procedure

Q1.How long does ACL reconstruction surgery take?

The surgery typically takes 1-2 hours. You will spend additional time in pre-op preparation and post-op recovery before being discharged the same day or next morning.

Q2.When can I return to sports after ACL surgery?

Most athletes can return to sports at 6-12 months post-surgery, but this varies based on sport, rehabilitation progress, and functional testing results. Dr. Gurudeo Kumar will assess your readiness.

Q3.Which is better - hamstring or patellar tendon graft?

Both have excellent success rates. Hamstring grafts have less post-op pain and smaller scars, while patellar tendon grafts may be stronger. Dr. Gurudeo Kumar will recommend the best option based on your age, activity level, and preferences.

Q4.What is the success rate of ACL reconstruction?

At Arthoscenter, we have over 90% success rate with ACL reconstruction. Most patients return to their pre-injury activity levels with proper rehabilitation.

Q5.Will I need a knee brace after surgery?

Yes, you will wear a hinged knee brace for 4-6 weeks post-surgery to protect the graft. The duration may vary based on your surgeon's protocol and healing progress.

Considering This Surgery?

Book an online video consultation with Dr. Gurudeo Kumar for just ₹999 and get all your questions answered