ACL injuries impact both non-athletes and athletes in the United States. The ACL is a crucial ligament that is located inside the knee joint, responsible in ensuring stability and supporting actions like pivoting, jumping, and sudden directional changes. However, because of its limited healing capacity, ACL reconstruction or surgery is usually required to restore knee function after a tear.
If you’ve been diagnosed with an ACL injury, knowing the procedure for ACL reconstruction, the role of an expert ACL surgeon, and advances in surgical techniques can help you make informed decisions about the treatment you’ll receive.
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The ACL’s Role and Why Reconstruction is often necessary
The ACL is the ligament that connects your tibia to the femur. It plays an essential role in stabilizing the knee during movement. When the ACL is torn, whether from a sudden twist, landing in awkward ways, or from high-impact sports, the knee’s stability is severely diminished. The signs of an ACL tear can include pain, swelling, and a sensation of the knee “giving out” in the course of activity.
ACLs are less self-healing than other ligaments, and therefore surgery is the sole effective way to treat them. ACL surgery typically involves the repair of the ACL in the rare instances, or rehabilitating it using a tendon-graft.
What is ACL Reconstruction Surgery
ACL reconstruction refers to the replacement of the ruptured ACL by a graft. The graft could be directly from the patient (autograft), or it can be obtained from donors. The patellar and quadriceps tendons (BTB) are two of the most popular grafts. Each graft comes with its own unique benefits.
Quadriceps Tendon: Known for its robust strength and the absence of donor site complications. this graft is dependable and stable particularly for athletes returning to high-impact sports.
Patellar Tendon BTB (BTB) commonly referred to as the “gold standard” the graft gives maximum stability for patients who need 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
In the past, ACL reconstruction methods placed the graft in an unnatural position, which meant it didn’t exactly match the natural location of the ligament. This can lead to poor results including instability as well as a higher chance of re-injury. However, recent advances in imaging technology and surgical research have revolutionized how ACL reconstruction is carried out.
ACL surgeons, such as Dr. Burnham today, use advanced methods to place the new ACL in the exact same place where the initial ACL was previously. This is anatomically positioned to ensure greater alignment with the knee’s mechanics as it naturally occurs, resulting in better stability and function. The benefits of precision are:
Reduced chance of re-injury
Better long-term knee health
A lower risk of developing arthritis
How to Measure Graft Size With Precision
ACL reconstruction’s success depends on the size and shape of the ACL graft. With the help of MRI images and direct surgical observation, surgeons are able to adjust the graft in accordance with the specific anatomy of each patient. A graft that’s too small will not give enough stability. A graft too big could cause complications. By adjusting the procedure to the individual patient, ACL surgeons optimize both healing and function.
Why should you choose an ACL Surgeon who is Fellowship-trained?
The experience of your surgeon is crucial to your ACL procedure. Specialists in fellowship training ACL Surgeons like Dr. Burnham have extensive experience and specialized training in treating complex knee injuries. Their extensive knowledge of current surgical techniques ensures that each patient receives individual attention, leading to better outcomes.
Long-Term and Recovery Benefits
The majority of patients will return to their previous levels of activity following ACL reconstruction with the right rehabilitation. Physical therapy plays a major role in recovering. It helps strengthen surrounding muscles and restore flexibility.
ACL surgery has improved the long-term outcomes for patients who undergo the procedure, resulting in lower rates of injuries that are recurrences as well as better knee stability. It doesn’t matter if you’re an athlete hoping for a return to play or a person who is seeking to return an active lifestyle, modern ACL reconstruction methods offer hope and lasting relief.
Final Thoughts
ACL reconstruction has become a cry from what it was a few years ago, thanks in part to the advancement of research, modern technology, and fellow-trained ACL specialists like Dr. Burnham. By focusing on precision advanced imaging, and personalized medical care, today’s surgical procedures offer patients the greatest chances for a speedy recovery and long-term knee health.
ACL injuries can be complicated But an ACL specialist will assist you to learn about your options and help you find the best option for you.
