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ACL / Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
The anterior cruciate ligament, or ACL, is one of the key structures responsible for knee stability. When the ACL is torn, the knee may become unstable, especially during turning, running, changing direction, or sports activity. Patients often describe this as a feeling of the knee “giving way” or a lack of confidence during movement. If left untreated, chronic instability may increase the risk of further damage to the menisci, cartilage, and other structures inside the knee joint.
ACL reconstruction is a surgical procedure designed to restore knee stability and improve joint function. The damaged ligament is replaced with a graft, usually prepared from the patient’s own tissue. The graft is positioned in specially prepared bone tunnels in the femur and tibia, and then stabilised using fixation implants. The choice of reconstruction technique and graft type depends on several factors, including the patient’s anatomy, activity level, condition of the joint, and functional expectations.
The procedure is performed using an arthroscopic technique, which allows the surgeon to assess the inside of the knee joint and treat associated injuries when necessary. After surgery, rehabilitation is an essential part of the treatment process. A structured rehabilitation programme helps restore range of motion, rebuild muscle strength, improve knee control, and support a safe return to everyday activities or sport.
Advanced ACL Reconstruction Option
For patients requiring strong graft fixation and a stable reconstruction technique, KCM Clinic also offers ACL Reconstruction Using the BTB Technique with PEEK Implants. This method uses the patient’s own bone-tendon-bone graft and modern PEEK fixation implants to support durable ligament reconstruction and precise knee stabilisation.
Learn more about ACL Reconstruction Using the BTB Technique with PEEK Implants
The damaged anterior cruciate ligament is reconstructed using other tendon elements harvested from the patient during surgery. The choice of graft depends on many factors (including the aforementioned condition of the joint cartilage). Two types of graft are most commonly used: patellar tendon or semitendinosus/semimembranosus tendon. After harvesting the graft, it is placed at the site of the ligament injury in specially drilled channels in the femur and tibia. The graft is stabilized using titanium screws or (in more advanced methods) bioabsorbable screws or special stabilizers (endobutton, retroscrew, crosspin). The latest method is the “double-bundle” method, which involves the use of not one but two grafts, which, according to the authors, provides more anatomical stabilization.
The patient experiences a feeling of the knee “giving way,” and uncertainty when changing direction or attempting to run. If you experience such sensations, consult a doctor.
The orthopedist diagnoses the injury based on the patient’s history and a physical examination. Ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging of the knee joint may also be helpful. If a ligament tear is detected, knee arthroscopy is necessary. Arthroscopy allows us to assess not only the extent of damage to the ligament itself but also to other intra-articular structures (isolated ligament tears are the rarest). Simultaneous assessment of the joint cartilage determines the subsequent choice of reconstruction method.
Regardless of the method chosen, the surgical procedure is performed arthroscopically. Regardless of the method used, postoperative rehabilitation is essential and is an integral part of the patient’s treatment. Early postoperative rehabilitation allows for a rapid return to fitness and usually begins the day after the procedure. This shortens the patient’s recovery time. Initially, the patient begins walking with the aid of elbow crutches, partially bearing weight on the operated limb, and, under the supervision of a physiotherapist, learns appropriate isometric contraction of the thigh muscles.
- About the procedure
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The damaged anterior cruciate ligament is reconstructed using other tendon elements harvested from the patient during surgery. The choice of graft depends on many factors (including the aforementioned condition of the joint cartilage). Two types of graft are most commonly used: patellar tendon or semitendinosus/semimembranosus tendon. After harvesting the graft, it is placed at the site of the ligament injury in specially drilled channels in the femur and tibia. The graft is stabilized using titanium screws or (in more advanced methods) bioabsorbable screws or special stabilizers (endobutton, retroscrew, crosspin). The latest method is the “double-bundle” method, which involves the use of not one but two grafts, which, according to the authors, provides more anatomical stabilization.
- Wskazania
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The patient experiences a feeling of the knee “giving way,” and uncertainty when changing direction or attempting to run. If you experience such sensations, consult a doctor.
- Przygotowanie
-
The orthopedist diagnoses the injury based on the patient’s history and a physical examination. Ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging of the knee joint may also be helpful. If a ligament tear is detected, knee arthroscopy is necessary. Arthroscopy allows us to assess not only the extent of damage to the ligament itself but also to other intra-articular structures (isolated ligament tears are the rarest). Simultaneous assessment of the joint cartilage determines the subsequent choice of reconstruction method.
- Convalescence
-
Regardless of the method chosen, the surgical procedure is performed arthroscopically. Regardless of the method used, postoperative rehabilitation is essential and is an integral part of the patient’s treatment. Early postoperative rehabilitation allows for a rapid return to fitness and usually begins the day after the procedure. This shortens the patient’s recovery time. Initially, the patient begins walking with the aid of elbow crutches, partially bearing weight on the operated limb, and, under the supervision of a physiotherapist, learns appropriate isometric contraction of the thigh muscles.
