ACL/PCL Reconstruction Surgery
Introduction
Knee injuries, especially those involving the Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) and Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL), can significantly impact mobility and daily activities. Surgeons perform ACL/PCL reconstruction surgery to restore knee stability and function after ligament injuries. This guide covers everything about ACL/PCL reconstruction, including the procedure, benefits, risks, costs, and recovery.
What is ACL/PCL Reconstruction?
ACL/PCL reconstruction is a surgical procedure that promotes the repair and reconstruction of the tibia’s femur by replacing a torn knee ligament with a graft made of either an autograft from the patient or an allograft from a donor. The ACL sits at the front and assists in stabilizing forward motion, whereas the PCL is at the back and prevents the knee from going backward.
These ligaments are important in the knee. Injuries from sports, accidents, or unexpected twists often affect these ligaments. Reconstruction surgery restores the knee’s strength and function, returning patients to their normal activities.
Why Do Patients Need ACL/PCL Reconstruction Surgery?
- The ligament is torn and can’t heal spontaneously.
- There is significant knee instability that affects activities of daily living.
- The patient cannot walk, run, or pivot without much difficulty.
- Conservative treatments such as physiotherapy do not help in improving the condition.
- The athlete or physically active patient wishes to have full restoration of knee function.
Untreated, an injured ACL or PCL can lead to chronic pain, instability of the knee, and higher chances of developing arthritis.
Types of ACL/PCL Reconstruction
- Autograft Reconstruction: Uses the patient’s tissues, such as:
- Patellar tendon graft
- Hamstring tendon graft
- Quadriceps tendon graft
- Allograft Reconstruction: Uses donor tissue, often from a cadaver.
- Synthetic Graft Reconstruction: Uses artificial materials like carbon fiber or polyester, though less common due to mixed success rates.
Steps of Procedure
The surgery is usually carried out by arthroscopy. Steps include:
- General or spinal anesthesia.
- Small cuts are made around the knee.
- Damaged ligament removal.
- A new ligament called a graft is placed in the proper position.
- Graft fixation using screws or other fixation devices.
- The incisions are sutured, and bandages are given to the patient.
The whole procedure takes 1-2 hours, and patients are discharged on the same day in many cases.
Benefits of ACL/PCL Reconstruction
- Restoration of the knee’s stability and function
- Regaining access to sports and physical activities
- Reduced pain and further damage to the knee
- Prevents the chances of developing osteoarthritis
- Quicker recovery with the minimally invasive method
Cost of ACL/PCL Reconstruction
- India: $ 3,500-$5,500
- USA: $20,000-$40,000
- UK: $15,000-$30,000
- Thailand: $6,000-$9,000
Best Hospitals in India for ACL/PCL Reconstruction
Top private hospitals that conduct ACL/PCL reconstruction surgery in India are:
- Metro Hospital Faridabad
- Apollo Hospitals, New Delhi
- Max Super Specialty Hospital, New Delhi
- Artemis Hospital, Gurgaon
Risks and Complications
ACL/PCL reconstruction is mostly safe, though some risks have been identified and include:
- Infection
- Blood clots
- Stiffness and range of motion restriction
- Graft failure
- Nerve or blood vessel damage
- Pain and swelling in the knee
With proper post-operative care, one can avoid or minimize complications after ACL/PCL reconstruction.
Recovery After ACL/PCL Reconstruction
The recovery period varies but generally follows this timeline:
- First few weeks: Crutches and knee braces are required.
- 4-6 weeks: Gradual weight-bearing and mild physiotherapy exercises.
- 3-6 months: strength training and increased knee movement.
- 6-9 months: Return to sports and physical activities.
Recovery Tips
- Follow a structured physiotherapy program.
- Avoid high-impact activities until fully healed.
- Maintain a balanced diet to promote tissue healing.
- Regular follow-ups with the doctor to track progress.
Conclusion
ACL/PCL reconstruction is one of the most important surgeries in the treatment of knee instability from ligament injury. With such high success rates and advanced minimally invasive techniques, it gives patients the possibility of regaining mobility and going back to their active lifestyle. The right choice of hospital and surgeon is vital for optimal results.
Seeking an orthopedic surgeon for ACL/PCL reconstruction can be a life-changing decision if you or your friend has a knee ligament injury.
