The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is a crucial supporting ligament in the knee joint. And its tearing can make recovery difficult. A surgeon constructs a damaged anterior cruciate ligament in the knee during ACL replacement. Those who will undergo this treatment for the first time may face certain challenges. So, does ACL replacement require significant surgery? What are the benefits of an ACL replacement, who requires one, and how does it affect a person’s life? Let us explore these details to gain a better understanding of this critical medical process to find out if it is a major surgery or not.
What is ACL Replacement Surgery?
ACL Replacement or ACL reconstruction surgery is a surgery that repairs a torn ACL in the knee. Four main ligaments make up the knee. These ligaments keep the knee stable, especially when one moves and when these movements are all of sudden or involve change in direction. When the ACL is torn–that may be due to an accident or injury from sport–it may need surgical intervention.
A surgeon removes the broken or damaged ligament during the procedure, especially if one wants to enjoy an active lifestyle. And change it with a graft, that may be from the patient itself (autograft) or from a donor (allograft). Common graft sources include:
- Patellar Tendon
- Hamstring Tendon
- Quadriceps Tendon.
Is ACL Replacement a Major Surgery?
Yes, this medical surgery is reckoned a major orthopedic procedure. Normally, it is done on an outpatient basis, where the patient can leave the hospital or clinic on the same day. It makes use of minimally invasive techniques. All of the below contribute to its classification as a major procedure:
- The impact on the knee joint.
- The need for general anesthesia.
- A significant rehabilitation period.
To elaborate on a few reasons that make ACL replacement a major surgery, it includes:
Surgical Complexity
A surgeon reconstructs a critical ligament, and this complex joint is a common site for complications. These complications may include missed concomitant injuries, tunnel malposition, patellar fracture, knee stiffness, and infection.
The surgeon must examine the injured knee carefully to keep it stable. The surgeon must revise misplaced femoral and tibial tunnels to their anatomic position and reduce fractures anatomically. Doctors should treat knee stiffness with aggressive rehabilitation or arthroscopic lysis of adhesions when necessary, and they should treat infection with irrigation and debridement, either with or without preserving the graft.
Potential complications
Like any procedure, certain risks have to be thought of that include, infection, graft failure, blood clots, or stiffness in the ligament. Discuss these potential risks with your surgeon and get to know the specific risks that are inline with your individual situation. Some of the likely complications are discussed below:
Graft Failure
The tissue used to reconstruct the ACL may not heal properly or may tear again. It may lead to instability and require revision surgery.
Knee Stiffness (Arthrofibrosis)
Knee movement may be restricted due to formation of scar. It may require physical therapy and potentially surgical intervention to restore range of motion.
Nerve Damage
During the medical surgery nerves are likely to be injured. It may lead to numbness, feebleness or pain in the legs.
Pain
Patellar tendon grafts can cause pain in the front of the knee, around the kneecap, or during activity.
Implant Failure
At certain times, the implant used to fasten the graft is of inferior quality may fail leading to further complications.
Rehabilitation Requirements
After the recovery, therapy needs to be regularly carried out. It will regain strength, mobility, and function of the broken parts. With the advanced technology surgical techniques have made ACL replacement safer and more reliable than before.
Benefits of ACL Replacement Surgery
The benefits of this medical surgery are substantial, especially for those who are looking to regain full function and stability in the knee.
- A Stable Knee: Knee stability is the primary goal of this procedure for both athletes and non-athletes. As an unstable knee increases the risk of further injuries for both athletes as well as non-athletes.
- Improved Mobility and Function: Surgery followed with proper rehabilitation regains full range of motion and strength to the affected body part. It allows these patients to resume their daily activities.
- Reduced Risk of Further Damage: With an unstable knee, you are likely to succumb to additional injuries. These can include meniscus tears or cartilage damage. ACL replacement reduces this risk.
- Increased Conviction in Movement: Many patients report a significant psychological benefit—being able to move without fear of their knee “giving out” is a major relief.
- Return to Sports or Active Lifestyle: For athletes, this is perhaps the most compelling reason. ACL reconstruction offers the best chance of returning to pre-injury performance levels.
What are the Scenarios for ACL Replacement?
When the main ligament, i.e., ACL, is completely torn or the knee becomes unstable due to sudden movement, it may need medical surgery. Below are some common scenarios that may require this surgery:
- Individuals like Athletes and Football Players: A torn ACL will not heal on its own. So if an athlete wants to regain his or her previous level of activity, especially in sports like football, basketball, surgery is typically recommended.
- Multiple Injuries to Ligaments: If an ACL tear progresses to the surrounding area, i.e., damage to nearby knee structures, the doctor will advise surgery.
- People Experiencing Daily Activity who Show An unstable knee: If you experience an unstable knee even while performing daily tasks like walking, climbing stairs or carrying light loads, then surgery may benefit you in this case.
- Chronic knee Instability: After a partial or complete ACL tear, if the knee tends to be unstable, that may cause pain and difficulty with day-to-day activities, to bring back stability, surgery might be considered.
As a matter of fact, older adults or individuals with sedentary lifestyles might manage with physical therapy and lifestyle changes.
How is an Individual Affected by this Surgery?
The impact of ACL replacement extends beyond the physical aspects. It influences emotional health, work life, and social engagement. Given below are some crucial parameters that should be thought of carefully:
Revival Period
After surgery, the first few days or weeks will be crucial. Initial pain, crutches, and restricted mobility, all of these can affect a person’s autonomy. However, most patients resume basic activities within a few weeks.
Physical Therapy Commitment
Rehabilitation is synonymous with long-term commitment. Often it may last for 6 to 12 months. Regular physical therapy sessions are essential to ensure proper healing and regain full motion and functionality.
Emotional and Mental Health
Frustration or even mild depression can be experienced as people with weak hearts may find it difficult to cope up with limited mobility that may be due to surgery. Healthcare professionals are always there to help. And close friends and family members will ease the journey.
Career and Daily Responsibilities
For physically demanding jobs, a long recovery may mean a break from normal activity. People with light jobs like computer related work may return sooner. But you may still need to settle during the early phase of recovery.
Financial Issues
Although one may be insured, there may be out-of-pocket expenses. And it can include:
- Surgery
- Therapy
- Medications
- Missed Work
Planning ahead can reduce stress during recovery. In Spite of all the challenges, the long-term improvements in quality of life often outweigh the temporary inconveniences.
Does ACL Replacement Need Urgent Attention?
A torn ACL may not need emergency medical surgery. If ignored, it can lead to complications in the long run. Early evaluation and treatment planning play a crucial role. Below are some points where you may need to act quickly:
- Severe Swelling or Pain: Could indicate additional injuries such as bone bruises or meniscal damage.
- Persistent Instability: Suggests a high likelihood of further injury if not treated.
- Active Athletes: To minimize downtime, doctors recommend medical procedures.
Conclusion
In this blog, we answered Is ACL replacement a major surgery? And a highly effective treatment that makes the knee stable after a serious injury. It can bring about a change in the quality of life, especially for those who want to lead a healthy and active lifestyle.
