ACL Injuries Surgical Treatments
What are the surgical options for an ACL injury?
Studies report that patients with an ACL injury may benefit from beginning physical therapy prior to surgery to strengthen the muscles surrounding the knee, particularly when their range of motion is limited. This is called prehabilitation. Once a patient has at least 0-90 degrees of range of motion, Dr. Chahla will discuss moving forward with surgical intervention. Generally, delaying surgery until the pain, swelling and inflammation have decreased, and the range of motion has been restored with physical therapy, results in the best outcome. The timing of ACL surgery is made on a case-by-case basis with each individual patient and the symptoms they are presenting with.
Knee arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure used to view, assess, and treat a torn ACL. A torn meniscus, commonly found with an ACL rupture, can also be repaired during a knee arthroscopy.
ACL injuries can be treated arthroscopically either by repairing the ACL or reconstructing the ACL. Since a very specific type and location of a partial ACL tear is the only indicator for an ACL repair, often, a reconstruction of the ACL is the best option for optimizing full recovery. The decision to repair versus reconstruct the ACL will be discussed during your appointment with Dr. Chahla based off of the physical exam findings, results of your MRI, and degree of your injury.
ACL reconstruction is a surgical procedure used to replace a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) with a graft, typically sourced from the patient’s own tendon (autograft) or a donor tendon (allograft). This procedure is often recommended when the ACL tear is complete or located in an area where repair is unlikely to succeed. ACL reconstruction aims to restore knee stability, improve function, and allow a return to physical activity.
The graft is carefully secured using minimally invasive techniques, such as arthroscopy, to ensure precision and reduce recovery time. Following surgery, a structured rehabilitation program is essential to optimize outcomes, rebuild strength, and restore full range of motion. Dr. Chahla will discuss your specific surgical plan and graft options based on the severity of your injury, activity level, and personal goals.
ACL repair is a surgical option reserved for select cases of partial ACL tears where the ligament’s structure and attachment site are conducive to healing. During the procedure, the torn portion of the ACL is reattached to the bone using advanced arthroscopic techniques to promote natural healing. ACL repair is typically considered for patients with specific tear patterns, such as proximal tears, which are more likely to heal successfully.
While ACL repair is less common than reconstruction, it can be a viable option for some individuals, particularly younger patients or those with minimal ligament damage. During your consultation with Dr. Chahla, the decision to pursue ACL repair will be based on your MRI results, the location of the tear, and your overall knee stability. Rehabilitation following ACL repair focuses on protecting the repaired ligament while gradually restoring strength and mobility.
At a Glance
Dr. Jorge Chahla
- Triple fellowship-trained sports medicine surgeon
- Performs over 700 surgeries per year
- Associate professor of orthopedic surgery at Rush University
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