THE ANTERIOR CRUCIATE LIGAMENT (ACL)

An ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) injury is a type of knee injury that occurs when the ACL ligament is torn or damaged. The ACL is one of the major ligaments in the knee joint and is responsible for providing stability to the knee during activities such as running, jumping, and changing direction. ACL injuries are common among athletes who play sports that involve quick changes of direction or jumping, such as basketball, soccer, and football. However, they can also occur during everyday activities, such as slipping or falling.

Need to know

What happens during surgery?

The procedure usually lasts an hour, during which you may receive general anaesthesia to put you to sleep or regional anaesthesia to numb your legs. If you choose regional anaesthesia, you’ll also receive medication to help you relax. To perform ACL surgery, doctors commonly use arthroscopic surgery, which involves making small cuts around the knee and using tiny tools and a camera. This method causes less scarring than open-knee surgery. The first step is to position the graft correctly, followed by drilling two tunnels in the bones above and below the knee. Screws will be placed in the tunnels to secure the graft, which will serve as a bridge for a new ligament to grow on during the healing process. It may take several months for a new ACL to fully develop.

How to prepare?

To ensure a successful recovery after ACL surgery, there are several steps you should take. These include discussing any medications with your doctor, arranging transportation to and from the hospital, following instructions on eating and drinking, quitting smoking beforehand, attending pre-operative appointments, asking questions, preparing your home, and having help with daily tasks. By following these guidelines, you can prepare effectively for surgery and maximize your chances of a successful outcome.

After ACL surgery?

Before leaving the hospital, you will receive instructions on how to change the dressing on your wound. Doctor will advise you to elevate your knee on pillows, apply ice, wrap it in a bandage, and use crutches to reduce pressure. Your doctor may recommend pain relief medication such as over-the-counter drugs like acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or naproxen, or prescription drugs like meloxicam or gabapentin. You will be sent for progressive physical therapy to strengthen your muscles and ligaments as your ACL heals. You can expect to resume your regular activities within about 9 months, while athletes may need up to 12 months to return to playing.