Artificial ligament surgery is a procedure used to reconstruct a torn ligament using a synthetic (man-made) ligament instead of tissue taken from the patient or a donor. One of these synthetic ligaments, called Ligament Advanced Reinforcement System…

Overview

Artificial Ligament Surgery

Artificial ligament surgery is a procedure used to reconstruct a torn ligament using a synthetic (man-made) ligament instead of tissue taken from the patient or a donor. One of these synthetic ligaments, called Ligament Advanced Reinforcement System (LARS), is available for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. The artificial ligament is made from polyethylene terephthalate (PET) fibres.

Conditions in Which It May Be Required

Artificial ligament surgery may be considered in people with severe ligament injuries such as:

• Complete ACL tears
• Athletes wishing to return to sports
• Repeated knee instability
• Combined injuries involving other ligaments or cartilage

Procedure

Before the Procedure

Before surgery, the healthcare team may:

• Review medical history and medicines
• Examine the knee and review MRI scans
• Explain the procedure, risks and expected recovery
• Advise fasting before surgery
• Recommend stopping certain medicines if needed

Some patients may also be advised to begin strengthening exercises before surgery.

Type of Anaesthesia and Duration

LARS reconstruction is commonly performed under:

• General anaesthesia (patient remains asleep), or
• Spinal anaesthesia (lower body is numbed)

The procedure is usually performed using arthroscopy and commonly takes about 1–2 hours.

Step-by-Step Overview of the Procedure

Although techniques may vary, the procedure commonly includes:

• Small cuts are made around the knee.
• The damaged ACL is removed or prepared.
• The artificial ligament is positioned inside the knee.
• The ligament is fixed to the bone using fixation devices.
• The cuts are closed and dressings are applied.

Most procedures are performed arthroscopically, using small cuts instead of large openings.

Benefits and Expected Outcomes

Artificial ligaments were developed to avoid problems linked with tissue graft harvesting and to provide early mechanical support to the knee.

Possible benefits include:

• Improved knee stability
• Avoidance of tissue removal from another part of the body
• Faster recovery in selected patients
• Earlier return to activity in some cases

Some studies have reported satisfactory short- and medium-term outcomes with low complication rates.

Risks and Complications

Like all surgeries, LARS reconstruction has risks.

Common Risks

• Pain and swelling
• Infection
• Knee stiffness
• Graft failure or re-tear

Rare but Serious Complications

Older synthetic ligaments were associated with:

• Synovitis (inflammation inside the joint)
• Mechanical breakdown of the ligament
• Persistent knee instability

Factors Affecting Outcomes

Results may be affected by:

• Severity of injury
• Rehabilitation and physiotherapy
• Returning to sports too early
• Associated knee injuries

During Hospital Stay

After surgery, the healthcare team may:

• Monitor pain and swelling
• Encourage movement as advised
• Provide physiotherapy instructions
• Explain wound care and follow-up visits

Some patients go home the same day, while others may stay overnight depending on recovery.

Recovery Timeline

• Walking with support may begin early after surgery
• Physiotherapy usually starts soon after surgery
• Return to sports may take several months depending on recovery

Wound Care and Precautions

Patients are commonly advised to:

• Keep the wound clean and dry
• Attend physiotherapy regularly
• Avoid twisting or heavy activity until advised
• Use braces or supports if recommended

Lifestyle and Prevention

Long-term knee care may include:

• Regular strengthening exercises
• Warm-up before sports
• Following rehabilitation instructions carefully
• Using proper sports techniques

When to Contact a Doctor

Patients should seek medical attention if they develop:

• Fever
• Increasing redness or swelling around the wound
• Severe pain or worsening swelling
• Drainage from the wound
• Calf swelling or difficulty breathing
• Sudden worsening of knee movement

Regular follow-up visits are important to monitor healing and recovery.

Myths and Facts

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)