ACL Reconstruction Surgery in Gurgaon, Delhi-NCR, India
What is ACL reconstruction surgery?
A torn ACL makes life hard. Your knee feels shaky and weak, making it tough to walk, run, or do normal things. Even going upstairs or taking a walk can feel scary because you may have a feeling of knee giving out.
Your ACL is like a strong cord that holds your knee together. When it tears, you lose the support that keeps your knee working right. This leads to pain and makes it hard to move like you want to.
ACL reconstruction surgery involves replacing a torn ligament with a tendon graft, which helps to restore knee stability and function. Whether you are an athlete hoping to return back to the field or just want to move around normally, this procedure can help you regain confidence in your knee and resume your active lifestyle.
Types of ACL Surgery
ACL surgery is replacing the ruptured ligament with a new tendon, known as a graft, to help stabilize the knee and restore the full range of movement. The type of graft utilized is determined by the patient's age, activity level, and personal preferences. Here are the three primary kinds of grafts utilized in ACL surgery:
1. Autograft:
Autograft surgery involves using a tendon from a different area of the body, such as the hamstring tendons, peroneal tendon or patellar tendon.
It is your tissue; there is no chance of rejection, and it usually heals well.
This alternative is frequently suggested for young, energetic people or athletes.
2. Allograft:
This kind of graft is obtained from a donor, typically a deceased person, and is properly sterilized to assure its safety.
Allografts are an excellent alternative for people who do not want to use their tissue or who are having revision procedures.
There is no removal of tissue from your own body; recovery may be slightly faster.However, allograft is not easily available in India.
3. Synthetic Graft:
Artificial materials, such as carbon fiber or Teflon, are utilized to replace the damaged ACL.
Synthetic grafts are less common; that is, however, they may be a possibility in certain situations where biological grafts are not appropriate.
While progress is being made, experts are still looking for the most durable materials for long-term success.
Why Is ACL Reconstruction Surgery Performed?
ACL reconstruction surgery repairs a torn ACL, allowing you to regain knee stability and movement. While not everyone with a ruptured ACL requires surgery, it is frequently suggested for those who are particularly active or have ongoing difficulties.
ACL surgery may be necessary for:
Active people wishing to resume sports or physical activities.
Young people who require a solid knee for their lifestyle.
Those suffering from discomfort and instability do not respond to rest or therapy.
The procedure stabilizes your knee, relieves discomfort, and allows you to move around and enjoy everyday activities without fear of your knee giving out.
How to Prepare for ACL Reconstruction?
Before your ACL reconstruction surgery, the medical team will make sure you’re ready:
Hospital Preparation:
When you arrive, you’ll change into a hospital gown. A small IV line will be placed in your arm to deliver fluids and medication to keep you pain-free and relaxed during the procedure.
The Procedure:
The procedure involves steps like
Your surgeon makes a small incision near the knee. A tiny camera is inserted to guide the process. Diagnosis is confirmed and then the graft is procured. The torn ACL is carefully removed, and the area is cleaned. Next, precise tunnels are created in your thigh and shin bones to position the new graft. It’s secured using special screws or buttons to hold it firmly in place.
Final Steps:
The surgeon tests your knee’s stability and range of motion to ensure everything feels stable and moves smoothly. The incision is closed with stitches or tape, and your knee is wrapped in a bandage. A brace may be added for extra support.
Most surgeries take 45 minutes to 1 hour. You’ll likely go home the same day once you’re awake and ready, with clear instructions to start healing. Rest, ice, and gentle exercises will be key in the days ahead.
ACL Reconstruction Surgery Procedure / How ACL Reconstruction Is Performed?
Before surgery starts, the anesthetist gives you regional anesthesia. This makes your leg numb. Some people want to sleep during the procedure, so they are given sleep medicine also. Your doctor checks your breathing and heart the whole time to make sure you're doing great. Your doctor might show you the videos of the live surgery from inside your knee - kind of cool!
What Happens During Surgery:
1. Small Cuts
The doctor makes 2-3 tiny cuts around your knee
Puts in a small camera through one cut
Camera shows your knee on a TV screen
2. Taking Out Torn ACL
Uses small tools to remove old, torn ACL
Cleans up any torn pieces
Makes room for new tissue
3. Getting New Tissue
Takes tissue from your leg or uses donor tissue
Shapes it to fit just right
Gets it ready to become your new ACL
4. Making Bone Tunnels
Makes small holes in leg bones
Like tiny tunnels for the new tissue
Must be in exactly the right spots
5. Putting in a New ACL
6. Extra Checks
Look for other knee problems
Fixes any torn meniscus, if they find
Makes sure everything looks good
7. Testing
Bends your knee in different ways
Make sure the new ACL is strong
Checks that everything moves right
8. Finishing
Surgery takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour. When you wake up, nurses keep checking on you and give you medicine if you have pain. Most people go home the same day!
After the Surgery
Just do what your doctor says and don't skip therapy. That's how you get better faster.
After surgery, your knee gets wrapped in bandages. The doctor gives you a brace to keep your knee straight while it starts healing. Since walking is hard, you'll use crutches to get around. Most people go home the same day!
The First Few Days
Your knee will hurt and look puffy
Keep your leg up on pillows when resting
Ice helps with swelling; put ice packs on for 20 minutes
Rest a lot; your body needs it
Take medicine as prescribed by a doctor.
Getting Back to Normal
You'll start therapy from the very next day.
You’ll start walking with the crutches from the very next day.
After 6-8 weeks, you can drive again
Wait 6-9 months to play sports again
Your doctor checks on you now and then
Some people heal faster than others
Take it slow. Your knee needs time to heal. Keep doing your exercises, and soon you'll be back to normal. Your fixed knee will be strong again.
Remember: Each person heals differently. Listen to your doctor; follow the instructions.
Risks & Complications of ACL Reconstruction
Like any surgery, getting your ACL fixed has some risks. While doctors do this surgery all the time and most people do great, it's important to know what could happen. Your doctor will talk about all these things with you before surgery, so you know exactly what to expect.
Possible Problems
You might bleed more than normal
Blood might clump up in your leg
The cuts could get infected
Your knee might still hurt sometimes
Your knee could feel stiff or weak
You might not bend your knee as much as before
If you get tissue from a donor, your body might not like it
For kids: The surgery could affect how their leg bones grow
Most people (about 8 or 9 out of 10) do well after surgery. Their knees get strong and stable again. Your doctor knows about these risks and works hard to prevent them.
Before Surgery
Your doctor will talk about these risks with you
They'll check if you're healthy enough
They'll tell you how to get ready
Ask questions if you're worried about anything
Every surgery comes with some risks, but ACL surgery is one of the most common knee surgeries around. Your doctor and their team know exactly what they're doing. They'll check on you often after surgery to make sure everything's healing right. If anything doesn't feel right, they'll fix it right away.
Why Choose Artemis Hospital for ACL Reconstruction Surgery
Looking for the best care for your ACL surgery? Our expert knee doctors at Artemis Hospital help hundreds of people get back to their active lives. We use the newest tools and methods to fix knee problems, which means less pain and faster healing for you. Each person who comes to us gets their special plan - what works for one person might not work for another. Our team takes time to understand your needs, your lifestyle, and your goals before starting treatment.
Want to take the first step toward fixing your knee? It's easy to reach us - just pick up your phone and call +91-124-451-1111 or send a quick WhatsApp to +91-959-928-5476. If you prefer, you can book an appointment through our website or download our phone app. We're here to answer your questions and help you understand what comes next. Come see why so many people trust us with their knee surgery. We'll work together to get you back to doing the things you love.
Reviewed By Dr. Mohd Irfan Banday
Consultant - Orthopaedics
Artemis Hospitals
FAQs About ACL Reconstruction Surgery
What is ACL surgery?
It's surgery to fix a torn knee ligament. The doctor puts in new tissue to replace the torn one, making your knee strong again.
What happens after surgery?
You'll need to rest, put ice on your knee, and keep it up on pillows. You'll start therapy soon to help it get stronger.
Can I walk right after?
Yes - you'll walk with crutches for a few weeks. Your doctor will tell you when it's okay to walk independently without support.
Do I need ACL surgery?
You might need it if your knee feels wobbly, or gives out.
Will I get put to sleep?
Yes, if the patient is apprehensive, they are put to sleep by the anesthetist during the surgery.
Can teens get this surgery?
Yes, but doctors are extra careful because teens' bones are still growing.
When can I play sports again?
Most people get back to sports in 6 to 9 months if they do their physical therapy appropriately.
Will I wear a brace?
Yes, you'll probably wear one at first to protect your knee.
Where does the new tissue come from?
Either from your own body or from a donor. Your doctor will pick what's best for you.
When can I stand on my leg?
You can stand on your leg the next day and walk with crutches.
How long will I be off work?
Desk job as soon as you want to.
Physical job-Maybe 2 months.
