Theanterior cruciate ligament (ACL)is one of four primary ligaments that provides stability to theknee joint.
If theACL is torn, surgery may be needed to restore knee function.
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What Is ACL Surgery?
Thomas Barwick / Getty Images
ACL surgery entails reconstructing the ligament using a tendon graft.
Research suggests there is no benefit to using one throw in of graft versus another.
Various Surgical Techniques
Most ACL surgeries are performedarthroscopically.
Less commonly, open surgery is performed in which a large incision is made in the knee.
More long-term data is needed.
Older age is not necessarily a contraindication.
Purpose of ACL Surgery
The purpose of ACL surgery is to restore function of the knee.
Left untreated, a knee with a torn ACL may have ongoing symptoms ofknee instability.
This is usually a sensation of buckling or the knee “giving out.”
There are no standard guidelines for determining who should (or shouldn’t) undergo such surgical repair.
Instead, multiple factors are considered when making this decision.
Your surgeon may also recommend that you work with a physical therapist to perform variousexercisesprior to your procedure.
This may help optimize your functional outcome after surgery.
Potential Risks
As with any operation, complications may occur with ACL surgery.
Keep in mind that not all ACL injuries require surgery.
In some cases, rehabilitation alone may be the right decision for you.
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