When the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in your knee tears, it can significantly affect your mobility and quality of life. Whether from a sports injury or an accident, an ACL tear is not something to ignore, especially if you enjoy activities that require knee stability, such as running, jumping, or twisting. In Quezon City, ACL reconstruction surgery offers an effective solution to restore your knee’s function and get you back to the activities you love. In this blog, we will discuss what ACL reconstruction surgery is, why it’s necessary, and how it can help you regain pain-free movement.
What is ACL Reconstruction Surgery?
ACL reconstruction surgery is a medical procedure designed to repair or replace a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in the knee. The ACL is one of the key ligaments that helps stabilize the knee joint, especially during activities that involve sudden changes in direction, such as sports or quick movements.
If the ACL is torn, it can cause knee instability, making it difficult or impossible to participate in physical activities. During the surgery, the torn ACL is replaced with a graft, often from your own tissue or a donor’s, to restore the knee’s function and stability. ACL reconstruction is typically recommended for athletes or individuals with significant knee instability, especially if conservative treatments like physical therapy do not provide sufficient relief.
Why is ACL Reconstruction Surgery Necessary?
An ACL injury is often caused by activities that involve jumping, sudden pivots, or direct trauma to the knee, such as during sports like basketball, soccer, or skiing. When the ACL tears, it leads to several symptoms, including:
- Severe knee pain
- Swelling and bruising
- A feeling of instability or “giving way” when walking or standing
- Difficulty bearing weight on the affected leg
In many cases, especially for active individuals, conservative treatments like rest, ice, or physical therapy may not restore full knee function. When these treatments fail and the knee remains unstable or painful, ACL surgery becomes necessary. This procedure not only helps restore the stability of the knee but also prevents further damage to the joint.
Benefits of ACL Reconstruction Surgery
Undergoing ACL reconstruction surgery can offer a range of benefits, such as:
- Pain-free mobility: One of the most significant advantages is regaining pain-free movement in your knee. The surgery helps to reduce pain caused by the ACL tear and inflammation.
- Improved knee function: By repairing the ACL, the surgery restores knee stability, which is essential for both athletic activities and daily movement.
- Return to normal activities: After a successful recovery, most individuals can return to their previous activity level, including sports or regular physical routines.
- Long-term knee health: The surgery prevents further damage to the knee joint by restoring stability, reducing the risk of developing arthritis or other joint issues.
The ACL Reconstruction Surgery Procedure
ACL reconstruction surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia, and the procedure usually takes around 1-2 hours. Here’s a breakdown of the typical process:
- Preparation: The surgeon will first examine the knee to confirm the damage. The patient is then prepared for the procedure with anesthesia and sterilization of the surgical area.
- Graft Selection: The torn ACL is replaced with a graft, which can be taken from the patient’s own tissue (autograft), a donor’s tissue (allograft), or synthetic material.
- Surgical Technique: The surgeon will make small incisions around the knee and use minimally invasive arthroscopic techniques to remove the damaged ligament and place the graft in the correct position. Special instruments guide the placement of the new ligament.
- Recovery: After the surgery, the knee is stabilized and bandaged. Patients are typically advised to rest and elevate the knee, using crutches for support in the initial weeks.
Recovery and Rehabilitation After ACL Surgery
The recovery process following ACL reconstruction surgery is crucial for restoring knee strength and function. Most individuals can expect the following timeline:
- Immediate post-surgery: Swelling and discomfort are common after surgery. Physical therapy starts as soon as possible to improve knee range of motion and strengthen the muscles around the knee.
- First few weeks: You may be advised to wear a knee brace and continue using crutches for support. At this stage, walking without assistance may still be difficult.
- Physical therapy: The rehabilitation process is essential for full recovery. Strengthening the quadriceps and hamstrings helps stabilize the knee joint and restore mobility. This phase can take several months.
- Return to activity: Most patients can return to low-impact activities in about 4-6 months, but full recovery and return to high-impact sports may take 8-12 months.
Why Choose Tec Orthopedics for ACL Reconstruction Surgery in Quezon City?
When it comes to ACL reconstruction surgery, choosing the right orthopedic clinic is essential for ensuring the best possible outcome. Tec Orthopedics in Quezon City offers:
- Experienced orthopedic surgeons: The surgeons at Tec Orthopedics specialize in ACL surgeries and have extensive experience in performing successful procedures.
- Advanced technology: The clinic uses state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and minimally invasive surgical techniques to ensure precision and faster recovery times.
- Comprehensive care: From pre-surgery consultations to post-operative rehabilitation, Tec Orthopedics provides personalized care for each patient, ensuring a smooth recovery process.
Cost of ACL Reconstruction Surgery in Quezon City
The cost of ACL surgery can vary depending on factors such as hospital fees, surgeon expertise, and the type of graft used. However, Tec Orthopedics offers affordable options for ACL reconstruction surgery in Quezon City, with financing plans available for qualified patients. The team will discuss the cost breakdown during your initial consultation to ensure transparency and help you make an informed decision.
Takeaway
ACL reconstruction surgery in Quezon City is a proven and effective way to restore knee function, reduce pain, and regain mobility after an ACL injury. With expert surgeons, advanced technology, and a comprehensive recovery program, Tec Orthopedics offers the care you need to get back on your feet.
