ACL Repair

• ACL Reconstruction

ACL reconstruction is a surgery in which a torn anterior cruciate ligament is replaced with an ACL graft. This eMedTV page describes the procedure in detail, lists various types of grafts that are available, and explains the benefits of the surgery.

• Preparing for ACL Surgery

In preparing for ACL surgery, you must not eat or drink anything for at least eight hours ahead of time. This eMedTV article offers some precautions for ACL surgery and discusses what information to expect from your doctor regarding preparation.

• The Day of ACL Reconstruction

On the day of ACL reconstruction, prior to surgery, you will be given an antibiotic to prevent infections. This eMedTV resource lists other precautionary steps that will be taken in the pre-procedure room, such as applying EKG patches and IVs.

• The Operating Room for ACL Surgery

With so much medical equipment present, it can be scary going into the operating room for ACL surgery. As this eMedTV Web page explains, you can expect to see monitors, anesthesia equipment, the operating table, and trays of sterile instruments.

• ACL Reconstruction Anesthesia

During ACL reconstruction, anesthesia is administered through an IV. As this segment of the eMedTV library explains, this general anesthesia puts you to sleep so that you are not aware of any pain, pressure, or movement during the surgery.

• ACL Surgery

ACL surgery is a reconstruction procedure in which a torn anterior cruciate ligament is replaced. As this eMedTV page explains, the torn ligament is replaced with one of three types of ACL grafts: hamstring tendon, patellar tendon, or an allograft.

• ACL Surgery Recovery

A crucial part of ACL surgery recovery is plenty of rest in the initial week, followed by physical therapy. This eMedTV page explains what to expect during recovery, including follow-up visits, possible symptoms, and when physical therapy begins.

• Expected Results With ACL Reconstruction

This segment of the eMedTV library describes commonly expected results with ACL reconstruction surgery. It also explains the factors that can affect outcomes and the importance of clearly communicating your expectations with your doctor.

• ACL Surgery Complications

With any ACL surgery, complications are a possibility, and can range from infections to nerve injury. This eMedTV resource lists both major and minor complications associated with this procedure and explains their likelihood of occurring.

• ACL Reconstruction Alternatives

As this eMedTV page explains, aside from ACL reconstruction, alternatives for treating a torn ACL may include physical therapy or rest. Reconstruction surgery may also be suggested if other treatments are not effective after six months.

• What If I Don't Have ACL Surgery?

What if I don't have ACL surgery? As this eMedTV article explains, ACL surgery isn't mandatory, but if the damaged ligament is not replaced, other knee problems, such as meniscal tears and early arthritis, may also develop.