What Is Arthroscopic ACL Repair?
Arthroscopic ACL repair, also known as ACL reconstruction, is a minimally invasive surgery designed to restore stability to a knee with a torn Anterior Cruciate Ligament. Instead of a large incision, the surgeon uses an arthroscope—a small camera—and specialized instruments to rebuild the ligament. The torn ACL is replaced with a tissue graft, which acts as a scaffold for a new ligament to grow on.
This procedure is the standard for treating ACL tears in active individuals who want to return to their previous level of function. At Sano Specialty Care, our expert knee surgeons specialize in arthroscopic techniques to help you regain confidence in your knee’s strength and stability.
When Is This Surgery Recommended?
While not every ACL tear requires surgery, reconstruction is often the best option for individuals who:
- Train as athletes or lead highly active lifestyles.
- Experience persistent knee instability or “giving way” during daily activities.
- Have injured multiple parts of their knee, such as the meniscus or other ligaments, at the same time.
- Work in physically demanding jobs that require a stable knee.
The decision to proceed with surgery is made together with your orthopedic specialist after a discussion about your injury, lifestyle, and personal goals. Talk to a knee specialist or visit our urgent care if you need to be seen quickly.
The Surgical Procedure Explained
During an arthroscopic ACL reconstruction, your surgeon performs several steps through small incisions:
- Inspection: The arthroscope is inserted to get a clear view of the inside of the knee joint and confirm the extent of the damage.
- Removal: The torn fragments of the original ACL are carefully removed.
- Graft Placement: A new tissue graft is prepared. This graft can be taken from another part of your body (like the patellar tendon or hamstring) or from a donor.
- Fixation: Small tunnels are drilled into the shinbone and thighbone, and the new graft is passed through them and secured in place. This new ligament provides the knee with immediate stability.
Benefits of the Arthroscopic Approach
Using an arthroscope offers several advantages over traditional open surgery, including:
- Smaller Incisions: Results in less scarring and tissue damage.
- Reduced Pain: Patients generally experience less post-operative pain.
- Lower Risk of Complications: Less risk of infection and stiffness.
- Faster Initial Recovery: Allows for a quicker start to the rehabilitation process.
These benefits help patients begin their recovery journey more comfortably and efficiently.
Preparing for Your Surgery
Proper preparation can have a positive impact on your surgical outcome. Your care team may recommend:
- Pre-habilitation: Engaging in physical therapy before surgery to reduce swelling, restore range of motion, and strengthen the muscles around the knee.
- Medical Evaluation: A pre-operative appointment to ensure you are healthy enough for surgery.
- Home Planning: Arranging for help at home, as you will need assistance for the first few days after the procedure.
Remember to ask your doctor about the process and what to expect. Our team will provide you with detailed instructions to make sure you feel ready and informed.
What to Expect During Recovery
The recovery process is a structured, phased approach that requires your active participation.
- Immediately After Surgery: You will use crutches and likely wear a knee brace to protect the new graft. The focus will be on managing pain and swelling with rest, ice, and elevation.
- First Few Weeks: You will begin physical therapy to gently restore your knee’s range of motion and start reactivating your muscles.
- Months 2-6: Rehabilitation will focus on building strength, improving balance, and gradually returning to low-impact activities.
- Months 6-12: The final phase involves more advanced, sport-specific exercises to prepare you for a safe return to your desired activities.
Full recovery and return to pivoting sports typically takes between nine and twelve months.
Why Choose Sano Specialty Care
- Surgical Expertise: Our surgeons are highly experienced in advanced, arthroscopic knee ligament reconstruction.
- Integrated Rehabilitation: Our surgeons and physical therapists work together to create a seamless recovery plan for you.
- Focus on Outcomes: We are dedicated to helping you achieve your goals, whether that’s returning to the field or simply moving without instability.
If you’re dealing with the effects of an ACL tear, schedule an appointment to talk with our knee specialists. We can help you find the right path to get you moving again with confidence.
