Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury is among the most frequently reported injuries resulting from sports in the United States, affecting athletes and active people alike. The ACL is a vital ligament that is located inside the knee joint. It’s accountable to provide stability and support movements such as pivoting, jumping and sudden changes in direction. ACL reconstruction is needed due to the poor healing ability of this ligament.
If you’ve been diagnosed with an ACL injury, knowing the procedure for ACL reconstruction, the role of an expert ACL surgeon, as well as the latest developments in surgical techniques will help you make informed decisions about the treatment you’ll receive.
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The Function of the ACL and the Reasons Reconstruction is Often Required
The ACL connects the femur (thighbone) and tibia, (shinbone). It is essential to stabilize the joint of the knee as it moves. When the ACL is injured, be it due to a sudden twist, falling awkwardly, or during intense activities, the knee’s stability is greatly diminished. Signs of an ACL tear typically include swelling, pain, and the sensation of the knee “giving out” when you exercise.
Minor injuries to ligaments of other types can often heal with treatment and rest, the ACL’s weak self-healing capability means that surgery is typically the most effective treatment. ACL surgery is the process of either reconstructing the ACL with a graft, or fixing it in rare circumstances.
What exactly is ACL Reconstruction Surgery
ACL reconstruction refers to the replacement of the ruptured ACL by a donor. This graft can come directly from the patient (autograft) or it may come from donors. Two of the most frequently used grafts are the quadriceps tendon as well as the patellar tendon (BTB). Each graft type has their own distinct benefits.
Quadriceps Tendon: This graft is well-known for its strength and minimal complications with the donor site. It is a reliable stabilization for athletes who have returned from high-impact sports.
Patellar Tendon BTB (BTB) : Often called the “gold standard” the graft gives the highest level of stability to patients who require it.
Dr. Burnham, a fellowship-trained ACL Surgeon, has conducted extensive research on these graft options, showing excellent outcomes in terms of knee stability, durability, and minimal long-term complications.
Advancements in ACL Reconstruction Techniques
The past was when ACL reconstruction techniques placed the graft at an unanatomical position. This meant that it didn’t align with the natural location of the ligament originally. This approach often produced poor results, including lower stability and a higher chance of re-injury. Modern advancements in surgical research and imaging technology have revolutionized ACL reconstruction.
Nowadays, highly skilled ACL surgeons such as Dr. Burnham use advanced techniques to insert the new ligament exactly where the previous ACL was. This anatomic placement ensures better alignment with knee’s mechanics as it naturally occurs, resulting in improved stability and performance. The benefits of precision are:
Reduced risk of injury
Better long-term knee health
Lower likelihood of developing arthritis
It’s all about precision: the significance of graft sizing
A successful ACL reconstruction is contingent on the right size of the graft suitable for the patient. Using MRI imaging combined with direct surgical observation, the surgeon is able customize the graft to fit each individual. A graft which is too small could not be stable enough, while a graft which is too large could cause problems. ACL surgeons can maximize healing and functionality by customizing every procedure for the patient.
Why Choose a Fellowship-Trained ACL Surgeon?
The experience of your surgeon is crucial to the success of your ACL procedure. Fellow-trained ACL Surgeons such as Dr. Burnham have extensive experience and are trained to treat complex knee injuries. They’re equipped with the latest surgical techniques and can offer individualized care to every patient, leading to improved results.
Recovery and Long-Term Benefits
After ACL reconstruction, most patients can anticipate a gradual return to their prior levels of activity if they undergo proper rehabilitation. Physical therapy is an important part of recovery. It helps strengthen the muscles surrounding them and restore range-of-motion.
Due to advances in ACL surgery, patients are now experiencing more long-term benefits, such as lower rates of re-injury and enhanced knee stability. Modern ACL reconstruction methods can help you resume your active lifestyle, or return to sport.
Final Thoughts
ACL reconstructions have made a stride, way thanks to the latest techniques, research and knowledge of fellowship trained ACL surgeons like Dr. Burnham. Today’s techniques are based on precision, customized care and advanced imaging. This offers patients the greatest chance for long-term healing and healthy knee.
ACL injuries are difficult however an ACL specialist can help you identify your options and locate the best option for you.