ACL injuries are common among athletes and people who participate in sports. The ACL is an important ligament in the knee, which provides stability and helps support moves like pivoting, hopping, and sudden change in direction. ACL reconstruction is needed due to the poor recovery capacity of this ligament.
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Understanding the ACL reconstruction process, the role of a specialist ACL surgeon and the advancements in surgical procedure can help you make an informed decision regarding your treatment.
The ACL Its function and the reason why it is needed
The ACL connects the femur (thigh bone) to the tibia (shin bone) which plays a significant role in stabilizing the knee joint in movements. When the ACL is injured it may be caused by a twisting motion, landing in an awkward location, or even an impact-intensive sport. This can cause instability of the joint. ACL tears can lead to swelling and pain. They may also cause you feel like your knee “gives out” when you’re active.
ACL injuries don’t heal themselves and, while they may recover with rehabilitation or rest in some cases, surgery is usually the best solution. ACL Surgery typically involves either repairing the ligament in rare cases or reconstructing it using a tendon graft.
What Is ACL Reconstruction Surgery?
ACL reconstruction refers to the replacement of the ruptured ACL with an graft. This graft can come from the patient (autograft) or it can be obtained from the donor. Two of the most frequently used grafts are the quadriceps tendon and the patellar tendon (BTB). Each graft offers unique advantages:
Quadriceps Tendon known for its strong strength and minimal donor site complications, this graft can provide stability, especially for athletes returning to sports that require high impact.
Patellar Tendon (BTB): Often referred to as the “gold standard” in ACL reconstruction this graft is the best for people who need the most stability.
Dr. Burnham has extensive experience as a fellowship-trained ACL surgeon. He has conducted extensive research to find the most appropriate graft for knee strength and stability. There are likewise no long-term effects.
Advancements in ACL Reconstruction Techniques
ACL reconstructions historically have placed the ACL transplant in a non-anatomic location, which means that it was not aligned with the original ACL’s normal location. This often led to less than optimal results, for example, less stability and an increased chance of re-injury. The advancements in surgical research and imaging technology have revolutionized ACL reconstruction.
ACL surgeons, such as Dr. Burnham today, use advanced techniques to place the new ACL in exactly the same place where the initial ACL was previously. This anatomical placement aligns the new ligament to the knee’s mechanics and enhances stability and function. This is a great benefit which include:
Reduced risk of Re-injury
Better long-term knee health
A lower risk of developing arthritis
It’s all about precision. It’s the value of graft sizing
One of the key aspects of a successful ACL reconstruction is to ensure that the graft is in the correct dimension for the knee of the patient. Using a combination of MRI imaging and direct surgical observation, surgeons can adjust the graft to each patient’s anatomy. A graft of too little size won’t offer enough stability. An oversized graft may cause complications. By tailoring the procedure to every patient, ACL surgeons optimize both healing and function.
Why choose a Fellowship-Trained ACL Surgeon?
Your surgeon’s experience is important for your ACL operation. Fellowship-trained ACL specialists, such as Dr. Burnham are highly skilled and have a wealth of experience dealing with complicated knee injuries. They’re equipped with most advanced surgical techniques and provide personalized care to each patient, resulting in better results.
Recovery and Long-Term Benefits
If they are properly treated, those who’ve undergone ACL reconstruction are able to return to their previous levels of activity gradually. Physical therapy is an important element of recovery. It will help strengthen surrounding muscles, and help restore range of motion.
ACL surgery has improved through the years, which results in better long-term outcomes, such as a lower rate of re-injury, and increased knee stability. Whether you’re an athlete eager to get back on the field or someone seeking to regain an active lifestyle, the latest ACL techniques for reconstruction offer the possibility of lasting relief and hope.
Final Thoughts
ACL reconstruction has become a way from the condition it was a few years ago, thanks to the advancement of research, modern technology and fellowship-trained ACL specialists such as Dr. Burnham. Through focusing on precision advanced imaging, and personalized care, today’s surgical techniques offer patients the best chance of a quick rehabilitation and lasting knee health.
ACL injuries can be complex, but an ACL specialist will help you understand your options and find the best solution for you.