Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are common orthopedic ailments that can be treated with non-surgical and surgical methods, but surgery is usually required. During an ACL reconstruction, the surgeon removes the damaged ligament and replaces it with a piece of tendon.
What to Know About ACL Injuries and Reconstruction
- ACL injuries usually occur when the knee undergoes a sudden or severe twist from pivoting or excessive pressure.
- Physical therapy and rest may be enough to successfully treat milder ACL injuries.
- Surgery is usually required for ACL injuries; the most common surgery being ACL reconstruction.
- ACL reconstruction is where the surgeon removes the damaged ligament and replaces it with a piece of tendon, which may be sourced from your own body (autograft) or from a donor (allograft).
What to Expect with ACL Reconstruction
- ACL reconstruction is done under general anesthesia and takes about 60-90 minutes.
- Surgery is usually done in an outpatient setting, meaning you can go home the same day as your surgery.
Who is a Good Candidate for ACL Reconstruction?
- You are an adult who lives an active lifestyle
- You are a child whose growth plates have closed
- Non-surgical therapies have not been effective
- You are an athlete trying to return to a sport
What Can I Expect During Recovery Following ACL Reconstruction?
- Physical therapy
- Limiting or modifying activities
- Using assistive device
Most patients experience a full recovery after ACL reconstruction surgery when proper instructions are followed. Total recovery takes approximately nine months. Competitive athletes can expect to need eight to 12 months before returning to play.
- ACL reconstruction is done under general anesthesia and takes about 60-90 minutes.
- Surgery is usually done in an outpatient setting, meaning you can go home the same day as your surgery.
- You are an adult who lives an active lifestyle
- You are a child whose growth plates have closed
- Non-surgical therapies have not been effective
- You are an athlete trying to return to a sport
- Physical therapy
- Limiting or modifying activities
- Using assistive device
Most patients experience a full recovery after ACL reconstruction surgery when proper instructions are followed. Total recovery takes approximately nine months. Competitive athletes can expect to need eight to 12 months before returning to play.
Why Choose Orthopaedic & Neurosurgery Specialists (ONS) for Knee Issues
The orthopedic knee specialists at ONS are dedicated to providing surgical and nonsurgical approaches to treating acute and chronic knee conditions. Our specialists strive to offer the highest level of knee care that helps patients to restore function, reduce discomfort, provide relief, and prevent further injury.
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Greenwich and Stamford- Sports Medicine
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Practicing in:
Greenwich, Stamford, and Wilton- Sports Medicine
- Shoulder
Practicing in:
Greenwich and Stamford- Sports Medicine
- Shoulder
Practicing in:
Greenwich, Stamford, and Harrison- Sports Medicine
- Shoulder
Practicing in:
Greenwich and Harrison- Sports Medicine
- Shoulder
Practicing in:
Greenwich, Wilton, and Stamford- Sports Medicine
- Shoulder
Practicing in:
Greenwich and Stamford