When Early ACL Reconstruction Is Needed
A serious anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury can cause more than just temporary pain. ACL ruptures can cause instability in the knee, holding back athletes and non-athletes alike. Upon hearing an audible pop, individuals affected often feel immediate pain and swelling. In some cases, non-surgical treatment is an option, but other cases require early ACL reconstruction.
ACL injuries
A complex system of ligaments and tendons sustains and supports joints associated with the movement of the knee. In knee structures, the ACL can be a common injury, especially in athletes. There are approximately 100,000-200,000 ACL tears per year in the United States.
A deteriorating meniscus
When the ACL is not providing sufficient support in the knee, the meniscus cartilage pads have a higher risk of injury. The meniscus cushions the joint and allows bones to glide against each other. The menisci are also the knee’s shock absorbers. If ACL tears are left untreated or are treated too late, the meniscus can get torn, and a patient’s risk of developing osteoarthritis can increase.
ACL and meniscus repair
ACL reconstruction and meniscus repair are some of the most commonly performed arthroscopic surgeries. People with a torn ACL are at greater risk of damaging the meniscus. Data shows that 60% of patients with an ACL tear will also have a torn meniscus. Fortunately, almost all ACL reconstruction surgeries have a high success rate.
A torn ACL requires surgical grafting to replace the tissue. While doctors may use the patient’s tendons, human donor tissue can also be used. After the surgery, patients are recommended to attend rehabilitation programs to improve the range of motion, flexibility, and strength of the surrounding muscles. Recovery times can range between 6-9 months.
Early ACL reconstruction is recommended
There are many studies that have found that significant delays in ACL reconstruction can increase the risk of meniscus and cartilage damage. Early ACL reconstruction can improve stability, range of motion, muscle power, and postural control.
Is there such a thing as too early?
There are no standard timelines for when ACL reconstruction surgery should be done. Generally, patients are advised to avoid using the affected leg. Additionally, elevating the leg, applying ice, and taking pain reduction medications can help after an injury.
When to consider early ACL surgery
An ACL reconstruction is typically performed between 3-6 weeks after an injury. Swelling and inflammation must subside before performing the surgery. Getting surgery done too early can increase the patient’s risk of developing arthrofibrosis, or heavy scarring. Doctors consider nearby injuries, pain level, range of motion, and muscle control before moving forward with early ACL reconstruction to prevent complications down the line. Patients with an ACL injury should speak with a healthcare provider about treatment and reconstruction options.
Recent Posts
What To Do About Hip Pain: Is It Time To See An Orthopedic Surgeon About Labral Repair?
Hip pain should not be overlooked, as the issue could be a labral tear. Symptoms like pain and instability require an orthopedic surgeon’s assessment.
ACL Repair: Will You Have Range Of Motion With Your Knee After Recovery & Physical Therapy?
After an ACL injury, ROM can be negatively affected. ACL repair surgery helps restore function, but physical therapy is essential to ROM.
Arthroscopy: What Are The Benefits Of This Minimally Invasive Outpatient Orthopedic Procedure?
Arthroscopy can help diagnose or treat joint conditions. Benefits of the MIS include faster recovery, less pain, and fewer scars.
Posterior Interbody Lumbar Fusion: What Are The Benefits Of PLIF For People With Back Pain?
People with chronic back pain may benefit from posterior interbody lumbar fusion surgery. PLIF can reduce pain and improve stability.
“Everyone was concerned with my comfort.”
“All staff were wonderful.”
“NO wait time, RN Rebecca answered all questions prior to my visit by phone and again answered all questions and concerns while prepping me.”
“Everyone was concerned with my comfort.”
“Anesthesia staff was outstanding!”
“The staff was very polite, they were excellent. They explained exactly what was going on.”
“Dr. Tupper was amazing! He spent time explaining exactly what he was doing, what I would experience and made sure I was comfortable.”
“Everyone was friendly and the place was very clean.”
“Experience was amazing. The nurses my son needed at this time couldn’t have been chosen any more perfect. They were supportive and understanding, patient and just great human beings.THANK YOU KINDLY ”
“The nurses were very nice and caring!”
“Incredibly professional, friendly and confidence of knowing their roles as healthcare employees. Excellent!”
“Rebecca was amazing. I have always had trouble in the past with getting an IV started. I told Rebecca I was concerned about it. She got it on the 1st try – no digging in my arm and NO bruising the next day.”
“Dr. Tupper was amazing! He spent time explaining exactly what he was doing, what I would experience and made sure I was comfortable.”
“Incredibly professional, friendly and confidence of knowing their roles as healthcare employees. Excellent!”
“The nurses were very nice and caring!”
“Everyone was friendly and concerned about my comfort. They frequently asked how I was doing, or if I needed something.”
“Everyone was friendly and concerned about my comfort. They frequently asked how I was doing, or if I needed something.”
“Dr. Dedhia made everything clear and even scheduled an early follow-up appt so I could get back to work sooner.”
“No severe pain – Just a little discomfort – I was asked several times during procedure if I was OK – they showed genuine concern for my well being.”
“Entire staff was knowledgeable and courteous. They genuinely cared for my well being and made sure my wife and I were taken care of.”
“Efficiency of the staff. Courteous, friendly and caring attitude. Excellent office staff. Pleasant surroundings.”
“No severe pain – Just a little discomfort – I was asked several times during procedure if I was OK – they showed genuine concern for my well being.”
“I can’t say enough about Marcia and the entire team. The care I received was well beyond anything I could have expected.”
“All staff were wonderful.”
“The staff was great, especially Mary and Marcia. Marcia was extremely helpful post-op and made sure I was comfortable and well-cared for.”
“The staff was great, especially Mary and Marcia. Marcia was extremely helpful post-op and made sure I was comfortable and well-cared for.”
“I liked that it was so clean. Every staff member was pleasant and easy to talk with.”
“I can’t say enough about Marcia and the entire team. The care I received was well beyond anything I could have expected.”
“Amazing nurses, very caring and friendly and put both me and my son at ease.”
“The staff was very polite, they were excellent. They explained exactly what was going on.”
“NO wait time, RN Rebecca answered all questions prior to my visit by phone and again answered all questions and concerns while prepping me.”
“Marcia and staff were excellent and genuinely cared for my well being. Wish I could have taken them home.”
“The STAFF from the moment you walk in were the nicest people I’ve encountered at a medical facility.”
“The STAFF from the moment you walk in were the nicest people I’ve encountered at a medical facility.”
“Anesthesia staff was outstanding!”
“Efficiency of the staff. Courteous, friendly and caring attitude. Excellent office staff. Pleasant surroundings.”
“Experience was amazing. The nurses my son needed at this time couldn’t have been chosen any more perfect. They were supportive and understanding, patient and just great human beings.THANK YOU KINDLY ”
“I liked that it was so clean. Every staff member was pleasant and easy to talk with.”
“Rebecca was amazing. I have always had trouble in the past with getting an IV started. I told Rebecca I was concerned about it. She got it on the 1st try – no digging in my arm and NO bruising the next day.”
“Amazing nurses, very caring and friendly and put both me and my son at ease.”
“Dr. Best…is the best!”
“Everyone was friendly and the place was very clean.”
“Dr. Dedhia made everything clear and even scheduled an early follow-up appt so I could get back to work sooner.”
“Marcia and staff were excellent and genuinely cared for my well being. Wish I could have taken them home.”
“Dr. Best…is the best!”
“Entire staff was knowledgeable and courteous. They genuinely cared for my well being and made sure my wife and I were taken care of.”
Recent Posts
ACL Repair: Will You Have Range Of Motion With Your Knee After Recovery & Physical Therapy?
After an ACL injury, ROM can be negatively affected. ACL repair surgery helps restore function, but physical therapy is essential to ROM.
Arthroscopy: What Are The Benefits Of This Minimally Invasive Outpatient Orthopedic Procedure?
Arthroscopy can help diagnose or treat joint conditions. Benefits of the MIS include faster recovery, less pain, and fewer scars.
Posterior Interbody Lumbar Fusion: What Are The Benefits Of PLIF For People With Back Pain?
People with chronic back pain may benefit from posterior interbody lumbar fusion surgery. PLIF can reduce pain and improve stability.
Saying Goodbye To Tonsil Troubles: The Benefits Of Minimally Invasive Tonsillectomy
Chronic tonsilitis or other tonsil troubles can impact health and well-being. A minimally invasive tonsillectomy can reduce infections.
