Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Tear
ACL Reconstruction Surgery
The Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL Reconstruction Surgery) is an important ligament among the 4 ligaments that form a modified hinge joint between the shin bone (tibia) and the thigh bone (femur) in each knee. The key role of the ACL is to prevent the shin bone from sliding out in front of the thigh bone. This ligament also enables rotational stability in the knee.
The ACL ligament along with the Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) forms an X structure. The term "cruciate" in ACL and PCL means "cross like", which renders the reason for the term. It is observed that more women are prone to ACL injuries as compared to men. Sports enthusiasts are also largely affected by the dysfunction of the ACL.
ACL injury or tears usually occur on coming to a quick stop combined with a directional change when landing, running or pivoting. ACL tears are usually located in the middle of the ligament or off the femur bone among adults. Children are most likely to have the ACL pulled with a part of the bone attached. Both these types of injuries do not heal on their own and medical guidance is required to restore the health of the ACL. If the affected ACL is not repaired by surgical or non surgical means one can run the risk of having arthritis at a later stage.
Symptoms of Anterior Cruciate Ligament tear
The key symptoms indicating an affected ACL tear are:
- Severe Knee Pain
- Knee Swelling within 6 hours of the injury
- Popping of the knee
- Instability while bearing body weight
Causes of Anterior Cruciate Ligament tear
Accidents and sports injuries are considered as two main causes that lead to an ACL tear or injury. Movements associated with sports such as basketball, skiing, soccer, volleyball etc can lead to ACL tears. Accidents that put the knee under undue pressure can also lead to an ACL injury.
Treatment of Anterior Cruciate Ligament tear
Diagnosis and confirmation of an ACL tear is usually done through:
- Physical examination
- MRI Scan
- X rays
ACL tears and injuries can be treated surgically as well as non-surgically depending on the extent of the injury.
Non surgical methods include:
- Ice Packs
- Physiotherapy
- Exercises
- Splints or Joint Assistance Aids
ACL Reconstruction Surgery The ligament can be reconstructed through surgical methods such as:
- Allo-graft
- Auto-graft
- Repair Surgery
- Arthroscopic Surgery
- Open Surgery
Dr. Emmanuel - Providing services in orthopedic surgery to the area of Culver City, Los Angeles and Beveraly Hills, California (CA).
