How Does ACL Reconstruction Work?
Gray Rollins
The ACL or anterior cruciate ligament is one of the major
ligaments in the knee. Damage to this ligament often occurs
after a blow to the knee. This often happens in sports related
injuries and is seen a lot in American football players after
experiencing a side tackle. Other sports such as soccer,
skiing, basketball, cheerleading and rugby also have high
instances of players suffering ACL injuries. The effects of
this injury are debilitating and can take an extended period of
time for recovery.
To determine if there is an ACL injury there are three common
types of tests a physician may employ. The anterior drawer test
and Lachman tests are where the physician flexes the leg and
manipulates the tibia to determine greater movement than
normal. An MRI can also be used to determine damage. If damage
is found, a course of treatment will be prescribed. Small tears
will usually be allowed to heal by naturally, but more severe
injuries will require surgery and ACL reconstruction.
ACL surgery is done arthroscopically, which is a less invasive
type of surgery. Only small incisions are made which can reduce
recovery time for the patient. There are three main types of ACL
reconstruction to graft tissue to the knee. These types include
patellar tendon, hamstring tendon and cadaver.
The patellar tendon connects the kneecap to the shin and is
very strong and large. The graft is typically made from the
injured knee, but in cases of a possible second surgery this
may be taken from the other knee. The piece is positioned and
then screwed into place. This type of surgery is popular with
athletes because it is the fastest way to return the knee to
its peak performance. However, it is generally very painful.
The hamstring tendon is similarly locked in place by screwing
end loops of a graft from the hamstring to the tibia and femur.
The hamstring is not as strong as the patellar tendon so it will
force use of a brace for approximately two weeks. This will
immobilize the knee to allow for healing. This surgery is
significantly less painful and is a viable option to the
patellar tendon. Over time, studies indicate this surgery is
just as effective but it takes longer for a person to be able
to resume normal activities.
The cadaver surgery is when the tendon is removed from a
cadaver to use in place of the patient’s own tendons. Because
the removal is the most painful part of the surgery, this type
reduces the post operative pain associated with ACL
reconstruction. Because this is being taken from another body,
however, there is a risk of rejection that can cause
complications.
ACL reconstructions are commonly performed and are highly
successful. Care should be taken to reduce the amount of stress
put on the knee from blows, jumping or changing position
quickly. Resuming walking can occur after approximately three
weeks, more intense activity after four months, and full
recovery is typically complete after six months.
About The Author: Gray Rollins is featured writer for ACLHelp.
To learn more about ACL surgery, visit http://www.aclhelp.com/
and
http://www.aclhelp.com/aclreconstruction/
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