The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is a strong band of tissue inside the knee that helps keep the joint stable during walking, running and twisting movements. ACL reconstruction is a surgery done to replace a torn ACL using a tendon graft taken from the…

Overview

What is ACL reconstruction surgery

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is a strong band of tissue inside the knee that helps keep the joint stable during walking, running and twisting movements. ACL reconstruction is a surgery done to replace a torn ACL using a tendon graft taken from the patient or a donor.

Common conditions leading to the surgery

ACL injury commonly occurs due to:

• Sudden twisting of the knee
• Sports injuries (football, basketball, skiing or cricket)
• Landing awkwardly after a jump
• Sudden stopping or change in direction
• Road traffic accidents or falls

When is surgery required?

Surgery may be advised when:

• The ACL is completely torn
• The knee feels unstable during daily activities
• The patient wants to return to sports or active work
• There are associated injuries to cartilage or meniscus
• Non-surgical treatment does not improve symptoms

Procedure Details

What is the procedure and why is it done?

ACL reconstruction replaces the damaged ligament with a new tendon graft to restore knee stability and improve movement.

Before the Procedure

Key instructions

• Inform the doctor about medicines and allergies
• Stop smoking if possible
• Arrange help at home after surgery
• Follow exercise advice before surgery

Preparation guidelines

• Do not eat or drink for several hours before surgery
• Some medicines such as blood thinners may need to be stopped
• Blood tests or scans may be required

Procedure Overview

Step-by-step (simplified)

• The patient is given anaesthesia, general or spinal, so no pain is felt
• Small cuts are made around the knee
• A camera and surgical instruments are inserted
• The torn ACL is removed
• A tendon graft is fixed inside the knee bones
• The cuts are closed with stitches

The procedure usually takes about 1–2 hours depending on the complexity.

Risks and Complications

Common risks include:

Benefits and Expected Outcomes

Success rates

ACL reconstruction has a high success rate, with many patients returning to normal activities and sports after recovery.

How the procedure improves quality of life

• Better knee stability
• Reduced pain and swelling
• Improved movement and confidence during walking or sports
• Lower risk of further knee injury

During hospital stay

• Most patients stay for 1 day or may go home the same day
• Pain medicines and ice therapy are provided
• Physiotherapy usually begins early
• Walking with crutches may be advised

Recovery, Lifestyle and Follow-up

Recovery and aftercare

Length of hospital stay

• Usually, same day discharge or 1 overnight stay

Recovery timeline

• Walking with support: within days
• Daily activities: 4–6 weeks
• Sports activities: around 6–9 months

Activity restrictions

• Avoid running or jumping early after surgery
• Follow physiotherapy instructions carefully

Wound care and precautions

• Keep the wound clean and dry
• Avoid soaking the knee in water until healed
• Watch for redness or discharge

Lifestyle and Prevention

Recommended diet

Long-term care

Preventing recurrence

When to Contact a Doctor

Seek medical help if there is:

• Fever or chills
• Severe swelling or redness
• Increasing pain
• Difficulty breathing
• Wound discharge

Follow-up schedule

Follow-up visits are usually scheduled within 1–2 weeks after surgery and continue regularly during the rehabilitation period to monitor healing and recovery.

Myths and Facts

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)