ACL Surgery Overview

The Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) is a key ligament in the knee that stabilizes it during movement. ACL injuries, common in sports and accidents, can cause knee instability, swelling, and difficulty performing daily activities.

ACL Surgery is a procedure to reconstruct the torn ligament, restore stability, and allow safe return to activities.

Causes of ACL Injury

  • Sports injuries (football, basketball, skiing, etc.)

  • Sudden twisting or pivoting of the knee

  • Direct trauma or falls

  • Improper landing from a jump

Symptoms

  • Knee instability or “giving way”

  • Swelling and pain shortly after injury

  • Limited range of motion

  • Difficulty running, jumping, or pivoting

Treatment Options

Non-Surgical

  • Physiotherapy for mild sprains

  • Bracing and activity modification

  • Usually reserved for patients with low activity demands

Surgical Reconstruction

  • Active individuals wanting to return to sports

  • Recurrent instability

  • Associated meniscus or cartilage injuries

Procedure Highlights:

  • Torn ACL is replaced with a graft (hamstring tendon, patellar tendon, or donor tissue)

  • Arthroscopic, minimally invasive technique

  • Restores knee stability and function

Recovery

  • Knee brace and limited weight-bearing initially

  • Structured physiotherapy for motion and strength

  • Return to sports typically in 6–9 months

Benefits of ACL Surgery

  • Restores knee stability

  • Reduces risk of further knee injuries

  • Improves ability to participate in sports and daily activities

  • Protects cartilage and meniscus from damage due to instability

Dr. Faiz Ahmad

Consult Dr. Faiz Ahmad

Dr. Faiz Ahmad provides expert care for ACL injuries with: