ACL Injury and Reconstruction
ACL Tear
The anterior cruciate ligament, or ACL, is one of the major ligaments of the knee and runs from the femur (thigh bone) to the tibia (shin bone) in the middle of your knee. It prevents the tibia from sliding out in front of the femur and provides rotational stability to the knee.
An ACL tear often results from a sports-related injury that occurs when the knee is forcefully twisted or hyperextended. An ACL tear usually occurs with an abrupt directional change with the foot fixed on the ground or when the deceleration force crosses the knee. Changing direction rapidly, stopping suddenly, slowing down while running, landing from a jump incorrectly, and direct contact or collision, such as a football tackle, can also cause injury to the ACL.
When you injure your ACL, you might hear a "popping" sound and you may feel as though the knee has given out. Within the first two hours after injury, your knee will swell and you may have a buckling sensation in the knee during twisting movements.
Diagnosis of an ACL tear is made by knowing your symptoms, medical history, performing a physical examination of the knee, and performing other diagnostic tests such as X-rays and MRI scans.
ACL Treatment Options
Initial treatment of an ACL injury consists of rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE protocol); all assist in controlling pain and swelling. When pain diminishes, physical therapy may be recommended to improve knee motion and strength.
Treatment options include both non-surgical and surgical methods. If the overall stability of the knee is intact, Dr. Wang may recommend non-surgical methods. However, young athletes involved in pivoting sports will most likely require surgery to safely return to sports. The typical surgery for an ACL tear, which does not heal, is an ACL reconstruction. Surgery to reconstruct an ACL is done with an arthroscope using small incisions. Dr. Wang will replace the torn ligament with a tissue graft that can be obtained from your patellar tendon, quadriceps tendon, or hamstring tendon. Following ACL reconstruction, a rehabilitation program is important for your recovery.
