ACL Reconstruction
Reconstructive surgery to replace a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in the knee, commonly needed after sports-related injuries, to restore knee stability.
Who Needs It
Recommended for patients with a torn or ruptured ACL causing knee instability, often following a sports injury involving sudden stops, changes in direction or awkward landings. It is particularly important for athletes and physically active individuals who want to return to sport.
How It's Performed
The torn ligament is removed and replaced with a graft, often taken from the patient's own hamstring or patellar tendon, which is threaded through the knee and secured to recreate the function of the original ACL. The procedure is typically performed arthroscopically using small incisions.
Preparing for Surgery
Before surgery, patients typically undergo a physical examination and imaging such as an MRI to confirm the extent of the ligament tear and assess for associated injuries. A period of pre-surgical physiotherapy is often recommended to reduce swelling and restore knee movement before the operation.
Benefits
Reconstructing the ACL restores stability to the knee, reducing the risk of further injury and allowing a safe return to sport and activities that involve pivoting or sudden changes of direction.
Risks & Complications
As with any surgical procedure, ACL reconstruction carries some risk, including infection, stiffness, graft failure or persistent instability in a small number of cases. Your surgical team will discuss your individual risk factors beforehand and take steps to minimise these risks.
Life After Surgery
Most patients regain stable, confident knee function and are able to return to sport once a full rehabilitation programme is complete, with a low likelihood of further ligament injury.
Price Range
Price on Consultation
Recovery Timeline
The knee is protected with crutches and, in some cases, a brace, while early physiotherapy focuses on reducing swelling and regaining basic movement.
Physiotherapy progresses to restore full range of motion and gradually rebuild strength in the muscles supporting the knee.
Sport-specific training and agility work prepare the knee for a gradual, supervised return to competitive activity.