What is Anterior Cruciate Ligament Surgery?

It is a surgical intervention performed as a result of the rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament in the knee joint. Anterior cruciate ligament surgery It involves repairing or replacing the ligament with a new one. Surgery helps the patient regain the stability of the knee. It is generally preferred by active individuals such as athletes.

In Which Situations Is Anterior Cruciate Ligament Surgery Performed?

Surgery is often necessary in cases where the ligament is completely or partially torn. Tears can occur due to factors such as sports or trauma. Significant instability of the knee joint may occur as a result of its tearing or weakening. In this case, surgery may be recommended. For athletes and people with an active lifestyle, surgery is performed to speed up the return to previous levels of activity.

It may also be preferred to restore stability in the knee joint. Ligament tears are often seen with meniscus injuries. In this case, surgery can usually correct both injuries. In young and active individuals, surgery is often preferred for greater freedom of movement. It is also preferred to ensure long-term joint health.

However, every patient is different and ligament tears may occur to different degrees.  Anterior cruciate ligament surgery The necessity and appropriate treatment method may vary depending on age, activity level, and severity of the tear. The treatment plan is usually determined by an orthopedic surgeon. Therefore, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional and consider the appropriate treatment option.

Stages of Anterior Cruciate Ligament Surgery

Your doctor will evaluate the condition of your knee and determine the necessity of surgery. Your doctor may use these imaging methods to better understand the extent and type of damage.

Anterior cruciate ligament surgery General anesthesia or epidural anesthesia is usually applied to prevent pain during the procedure. Small incisions are usually made to access your knee.

The instruments and cameras required for arthroscopic surgery are placed through the incisions. Arthroscopic surgery allows the surgeon to examine and repair the internal structure of the knee.

Surgical allograft or autograft is used to create a new ligament instead of the torn and damaged ligament. The doctor determines and fixes the appropriate position of the new ligament within the knee. Surgical incisions are stitched or closed. The surgery area is cleaned and a bandage is applied.

Anterior Cruciate Ligament Surgery Recovery Process

The patient is kept under observation in the operating room for the first few hours after the surgery. You can usually be discharged from hospital on the same day.

However, this period may vary depending on how the surgery went and the doctor's recommendations. Pain control and swelling reduction treatments are important for the first few days.

You may need to use a splint or cast as recommended by your doctor. Weight bearing or walking may be limited during the first week and you may need to use crutches or a walker.

Physical therapy can be started during the first month. A physical therapist helps increase your joint mobility and strengthen muscles. After surgery, you can slowly begin to walk and regain daily activities. But you still have to be careful.

You may need to do a series of exercises according to your doctor's recommendations. The healing process usually takes 2 to 6 months. Physical therapy may continue during this time. It may be possible to slowly return to running or light sports after surgery.

However, your doctor's permission and guidance are important. After 6 months, the likelihood of returning to sports activities and more intense physical activities increases. However, the full recovery process may vary from person to person. It is necessary to follow your doctor's recommendations.

It is important for long-term success and joint stability. Remember that every patient undergoing surgery is different. Anterior cruciate ligament surgery recovery process may vary depending on personal factors. It may also vary depending on the type of surgery and the person's physical condition. It is important to follow your doctor's recommendations exactly and go for regular follow-up checks.