ACL Reconstruction

Why do I need ACL reconstruction?

Your anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is a major connective band in your knee. While anyone can suffer from an ACL tear or rupture, this type of injury most commonly affects athletes who participate in basketball, football, soccer, gymnastics, and downhill skiing (to name a few). 

Not all ACL injuries require surgery. Your orthopedist may only recommend ACL reconstruction if your:

• Knee is unstable
• Knee regularly buckles
• Meniscus is injured

ACL reconstruction may also be necessary if your injury affects your sports performance and you want to continue participating in your sporting event. 

What happens during ACL reconstruction?

The team of board-certified orthopedic surgeons at Los Angeles Orthopaedic Center spends time evaluating your injury and previous medical records to ensure ACL reconstruction is right for you. They prepare you for your procedure and recovery, so you know exactly what to expect.

During ACL reconstruction surgery, which is typically performed under general anesthesia, your orthopedic surgeon makes an incision and removes the damaged ACL. The next step involves replacing your ACL with a graft, which can come from other parts of your body or a donor.

To properly position the graft, your surgeon drills small tunnels in your thigh bone and shinbone and secures the graft in place with screws or rods. Over time, new ligament tissue starts to build up over the graft, and your knee becomes fully restored. 

How long is the recovery after ACL reconstruction?

In many cases, you can go home either the same day or the following day after your ACL reconstruction procedure. You’re going to need to use crutches to get around and wear a knee brace regularly. 

Physical therapy is necessary for several months after ACL reconstruction, and you can typically get started about two weeks after surgery. Your orthopedist might recommend getting started on platelet-rich plasma (PRP) or stem cell therapy injections to help with healing and inflammation after surgery. 

Full recovery from ACL reconstruction can take about 6-8 months, but your orthopedic surgeon at Los Angeles Orthopaedic Center may make you wait up to 8-12 months to return to all of your normal sporting activities. 

Book your ACL reconstruction evaluation at Los Angeles Orthopaedic Center today. Call the office to schedule an appointment or request one online today.