Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injuries are among the most prevalent sports-related injuries that occur in the United States, affecting athletes as well as active people alike. The ACL is located in the knee area, provides stabilization to the joint. It assists with activities like jumping, pivoting and directional shifts. ACL reconstruction and surgery is often required to repair knee function following the injury because of its inability to heal.
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Knowing the ACL reconstruction process, the role of a specialist ACL surgeon, and the recent advances in surgical techniques will allow you to make an informed decision regarding your treatment.
The Function of the ACL and the Reasons Reconstruction Is Often Necessary
The ACL connects the femur (thigh bone) to the tibia (shin bone) which plays a significant role in stabilizing the knee joint during movements. The stability of the knee is seriously diminished when the ACL tears, whether it’s from a sudden turn when landing on a bump or a bump, or from playing high-impact sports. ACL tears can result in inflammation and pain. They can also make you feel like your knee “gives out” when you are active.
Minor injuries to other ligaments could often heal with treatment and rest, the ACL’s lack of self-healing capabilities mean that surgery is typically the most effective option. 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 is the process of replacing the ligament that has been damaged with a graft. The graft could be obtained from the patient’s own body (autograft) or from a donor (allograft). The patellar and quadriceps tendons (BTB) are among the most frequently used grafts. Each of these grafts offers unique benefits.
Quadriceps Tendon is a well-known graft with a strong strength and low donor site complications this graft offers reliable stability especially for athletes returning to high-impact sports.
Patellar Tendon BTB: This surgery, commonly referred to by medical professionals as “the gold standard” for ACL reconstructions, is the best for those who require maximum stability.
Dr. Burnham, a fellowship-trained ACL surgeon, has conducted extensive research regarding these graft options, showing excellent outcomes regarding knee durability, stability, and minimal long-term complications.
Advancements in ACL Reconstruction Techniques
ACL reconstructions have historically been performed with the ACL transplant in a not-anatomic area, which means that it wasn’t aligned to the original ACL’s natural location. This method often produced poor results, such as lower stability, as well as an increased chance of injury recurrence. The advances in surgical research and imaging technology have changed the way we think about ACL reconstruction.
Nowadays, highly skilled ACL surgeons like Dr. Burnham use advanced techniques to put the ligament precisely where the previous ACL was. This anatomic positioning ensures an alignment that is more in line with the knee’s mechanics as it naturally occurs, resulting in improved stability and function. This precise alignment has numerous benefits which include:
Lower risk of re-injury
Better long-term knee health
Reduced risk of arthritis
How to Measure the Size of Grafts with Precision
The success of an ACL reconstruction depends on the right size of the graft to the patient. By using MRI imaging in conjunction with direct surgical observations, the surgeon is able to make the graft specific to each individual. A graft which is too small might not be stable enough and a graft that is too big can result in complications. ACL surgeons tailor the procedure to each patient to optimize the healing process and function.
Why should you select a fellowship-trained ACL Surgeon?
The experience of your surgeon plays an important part in the success of your ACL surgery. Fellow-trained ACL Surgeons such as Dr. Burnham have extensive experience and specialized training in treating severe knee injuries. The sophisticated surgical techniques they employ assure that each patient receives specific treatment, which can lead to greater results.
Long-term and Recovering benefits
After proper rehabilitation, patients who have had ACL reconstruction are able to return to their previous level of activity slowly. Physical therapy is a crucial component of rehabilitation. It helps build up the muscles around them, and restore range-of-motion.
ACL surgery has improved in recent years, resulting in better long-term outcomes, for example, a lower chance of re-injury and improved knee stability. Modern ACL techniques are a great option for anyone who wants to return to playing field, or resume an active life.
Final Thoughts
ACL reconstructions have made a stride, way due to the most recent techniques, research and knowledge of fellowship trained ACL surgeons such as Dr. Burnham. With a focus on precision, high-end imaging technology, and customized care, today’s surgical techniques offer patients the best chances for a speedy recovery and long-term knee health.
ACL injuries are complicated however an ACL specialist will assist you to learn about your options and help you find the best option for you.