ACL Reconstruction Surgery in India
Surgical reconstruction of torn anterior cruciate ligament using graft
Overview
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
General or spinal anesthesia is administered
Small arthroscopic portals (incisions) are made around the knee
The knee joint is examined with an arthroscope camera
The torn ACL remnants are removed
Bone tunnels are drilled in the femur and tibia
The graft is harvested (hamstring or patellar tendon) or prepared if using allograft
The graft is passed through the bone tunnels
The graft is secured with interference screws, buttons, or other fixation devices
The graft tension and knee stability are tested
Arthroscopic portals are closed with sutures and sterile dressing applied
Recovery Timeline
What to expect during your recovery journey
Immediate Post-Op
Rest, ice, elevation. Knee brace and crutches. Gentle range of motion exercises. Focus on reducing swelling and pain management.
Early Rehabilitation
Progressive weight-bearing. Continued ROM exercises. Quad strengthening. Stationary bike exercise. Gradual weaning off crutches.
Strengthening Phase
Advanced strengthening exercises. Balance and proprioception training. Light jogging on treadmill. Return to non-impact activities.
Advanced Rehabilitation
Sport-specific drills. Agility training. Plyometric exercises. Gradual return to running and cutting movements.
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?
Q2.When can I return to sports after ACL surgery?
Q3.Which is better - hamstring or patellar tendon graft?
Q4.What is the success rate of ACL reconstruction?
Q5.Will I need a knee brace after surgery?
Related Procedures
Meniscus Repair Surgery in India
Arthroscopic surgery to repair torn meniscus cartilage in the knee
Knee Arthroscopy Surgery in India
Minimally invasive keyhole surgery to diagnose and treat knee problems
Total Knee Replacement in India
Complete replacement of damaged knee joint with artificial implant
Patellar Tendon Repair in India
Surgical repair of torn patellar tendon for knee extension.
Considering This Surgery?
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