Overview
ACL reconstruction surgery is the current standard treatment for a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). It restores stability to the knee, relieves pain, and supports a return to day-to-day movement or physical activity. How quickly you recover from the surgery will vary, but most regain functional movement within a few months and are able to return to sport after a minimum of 12 months.
Where is Your ACL?
Your knee joint is supported by four main ligaments, which are strong bands of tissue that connect bone to bone. These ligaments are grouped into two sets: the collateral ligaments, which run along the sides of your knee, and the cruciate ligaments, which cross inside the joint.
The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the cruciate ligaments. Your ACL stabilises your knee by preventing your shin bone from sliding too far forward when you’re slowing down or stopping, controls rotation, and keeps your knee from collapsing inward when you turn or quickly change direction. When the ACL is damaged, your knee can feel unstable and may struggle to support your everyday activities.
What Causes An ACL Tear?
An ACL tear often happens suddenly and is usually the result of a twisting injury to the knee. This can occur during activities like football or jumping, which involve rapid changes in direction, awkward landings, or sudden stops. But, it can also happen during day-to-day accidents, like slipping on stairs or misstepping while walking.
You may feel a popping sensation when the injury occurs, followed by pain, swelling and a feeling that your knee may give way when you put weight on it. An ACL tear is usually diagnosed during a doctor’s appointment. However, it is usually confirmed with an MRI that assesses the knee for meniscus injury, which occurs in roughly 50% of cases.
What is ACL Reconstruction Surgery?
ACL reconstruction surgery is a procedure used to treat a torn anterior cruciate ligament by replacing it with new tissue. Unlike a repair, which tries to stitch the damaged ligament back together, reconstruction removes the torn ligament and replaces it with a graft. This approach has been shown to offer better long-term stability and outcomes, especially for people with a physically active lifestyle.
It is considered the standard treatment for a complete ACL tear when the knee feels unstable or if non-surgical treatment hasn’t restored full function.
How Do You Know If You Need ACL Reconstruction Surgery?
Whether or not you need ACL reconstruction surgery depends on several factors, including the severity of your tear, your level of knee instability, your lifestyle, and your personal goals.
You may be advised to have surgery if:
- Your ACL is completely torn.
- Your knee regularly gives way during everyday movement or exercise.
- You want to return to sports or physically demanding work.
- You’ve tried non-surgical options without lasting improvement.
How ACL Reconstruction Surgery Works
The procedure is typically performed using keyhole (laparoscopic) surgery. This involves making small incisions in the knee and using a miniature camera and instruments to carry out the reconstruction with minimal disruption to the surrounding tissue.
During the operation, the surgeon removes the damaged ACL and replaces it with a graft. This graft acts as a framework for new ligament tissue to grow and integrate into the knee. The most common graft choices are the hamstring, the quads tendon and the patellar tendon.
ACL Injury Recovery Time: What to Expect After Surgery
Recovery from ACL reconstruction surgery varies from person to person, but most people begin to see improvements within a few weeks. The full recovery process can take several months and depends on factors such as your age, activity level, and how closely you follow your physiotherapy plan.
Below is a general guide to what recovery might look like:
- First 2 to 6 weeks: You’ll focus on reducing swelling and regaining gentle movement in the knee. You may need to use crutches and a knee brace during this phase.
- 6 weeks to 6 months: Guided physiotherapy will help you build strength, stability, and flexibility. This stage is key to regaining control of your knee.
- 6 to 12 months+: Many people return to higher-impact activities during this phase. But it’s important to follow your consultant or physiotherapist’s advice on when it’s safe to do so.
Sticking to your recovery plan and listening to your body are important. Rushing the process can increase the risk of re-injury, while a steady approach helps give your knee the best chance to heal properly.
Why Choose Mid Ulster Clinic for ACL Reconstruction Surgery?
When you’re considering surgery, having confidence in the care you receive is just as important as the procedure itself. At Mid Ulster Clinic, we provide a supportive environment where your treatment and recovery are guided by experienced professionals who understand your goals.
Benefits of choosing Mid Ulster Clinic include:
- Short waiting times for orthopaedic consultations and surgery.
- Orthopaedic surgeons with extensive experience in ACL reconstruction.
- Personalised care plans that take into account your activity level, age, and recovery goals.
- A calm, professional setting where you are treated as a unique person.
If you’ve been advised you may need ACL reconstruction surgery, or you’re seeking a second opinion, we’re here to help.
Book an appointment with one of our orthopaedic consultants today.
- Medically Reviewed
