01/05/2026
ARTHROSCOPIC ACL RECONSTRUCTIONS & MENISCUS REPAIR
*What is ACL?*
The *Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL)* is one of the main ligaments in the knee that stabilizes it during running, jumping, and twisting. It’s commonly torn in sports like football, cricket, basketball, or from falls.
*What is Arthroscopy?*
*Arthroscopy* is a minimally invasive “keyhole” surgery. The surgeon makes 2-3 small 5-8mm cuts around the knee, inserts a tiny camera (arthroscope) and instruments to see and repair inside the joint without opening it fully. Benefits: less pain, smaller scars, faster recovery.
*What is ACL Reconstruction?*
A torn ACL doesn’t heal on its own. In *ACL reconstruction*, the damaged ligament is replaced with a new graft. Common grafts:
- *Autograft*: Taken from the patient’s own body - usually hamstring tendon or patellar tendon.
- *Allograft*: Taken from a donor.
The graft is fixed to the bone using screws or buttons and acts as a scaffold for a new ligament to grow.
*How the Surgery is Done*
1. Arthroscope is inserted to assess the damage inside the knee.
2. Torn ACL remnants are removed.
3. Bone tunnels are drilled in the tibia and femur.
4. Graft is passed through the tunnels and fixed in place.
5. Incisions are closed with 2-3 stitches.
*Recovery Timeline*
- *0-2 weeks*: Crutches, knee brace, gentle movement to prevent stiffness.
- *2-6 weeks*: Physiotherapy to regain range of motion.
- *3-6 months*: Strengthening exercises, walking without limp.
- *6-9 months*: Return to sports if rehab is complete and strength is 90%+.
Full recovery usually takes *6-9 months*. Skipping physiotherapy is the main reason for failure.
*Who Needs It?*
Not everyone with an ACL tear needs surgery. Surgery is recommended for:
- Young, active individuals or athletes
- Knee giving way during normal activities
- Associated meniscus or cartilage damage
Older or less active people may manage with physiotherapy + knee brace.
