ACL Tear Surgery - Diagnosis & Recovery

Weeks 1-3: Initial Recovery Phase

• Focus: Manage pain and swelling, begin gentle range-of-motion exercises, and initiate muscle activation.​

• Activities:

  • Use of ice and elevation to control inflammation.​

  • Engage in isometric exercises to activate the quadriceps muscles.​

  • Gradually increase knee mobility through gentle stretching and bending exercises.​

Weeks 4-6: Strengthening Phase

• Focus: Enhance muscle strength and improve knee mobility.​

• Activities:

  • Incorporate resistance exercises targeting the quadriceps and hamstrings.​

  • Begin stationary cycling to promote joint mobility and muscle endurance.​

  • Perform closed-chain exercises like partial squats and step-ups.​

Weeks 6-12: Advanced Strengthening and Proprioception

• Focus: Develop neuromuscular control and prepare for functional movements.​

• Activities:

  • Introduce balance and proprioception exercises using balance boards or single-leg stands.​

  • Progress to more dynamic activities, such as light jogging on even surfaces.​

  • Continue strength training with increased resistance and complexity.​

3-6 Months: Functional Training

• Focus: Prepare for return to sports or high-level activities.​

• Activities:

  • Engage in sport-specific drills and plyometric exercises.​

  • Perform agility training, including lateral movements and pivoting exercises.​

  • Gradually increase the intensity and duration of physical activities.​

6-12 Months: Return to Sport

• Focus: Safely resume competitive sports and high-impact activities.​

• Activities:

  • Undergo functional assessments to ensure readiness for sport.​

  • Continue maintenance exercises to support knee health and prevent re-injury.​

  • Gradually reintroduce full sports participation as advised by healthcare professionals.​

Potential Risks and Complications of ACL Surgery

While ACL reconstruction is generally successful, potential risks include:​

• Anterior Knee Pain: Discomfort around the kneecap, especially with patellar tendon grafts.​

• Stiffness (Arthrofibrosis): Limited knee mobility due to scar tissue formation.​

• Instability: Persistent knee instability, possibly due to surgical technique or additional injuries.​

• Graft Stretching or Failure: Potential elongation or rupture of the graft over time.​

• Infection: Rare but serious, requiring prompt medical attention.​

• Blood Clots: Risk of deep vein thrombosis post-surgery.​

Rehabilitation for Athletes

Athletes may require a more intensive rehabilitation program to safely return to their sport:​

• Phase 1 (3-4 months post-surgery): Focus on regaining strength and flexibility.​

• Phase 2 (4-6 months post-surgery): Introduce low-level fitness and agility drills.​

• Phase 3 (5-8 months post-surgery): Incorporate jumping exercises.​

• Phase 4 (6-9 months post-surgery): Engage in sport-specific drills, including cutting maneuvers.​

• Phase 5 (9-12 months post-surgery): Gradually return to full sports participation with an emphasis on injury prevention.​

Cost of ACL Surgery in India

The cost of ACL surgery in India typically ranges from ₹1,80,000 to ₹2,42,000. Factors influencing the cost include:​

• Type of anesthesia used.​

• Hospital location and associated charges.​

• Surgeon's fees and expertise.​ Patient's medical condition and comorbidities.​

• Type of graft utilized.​

• Need for additional procedures or extended rehabilitation.​

Types of ACL Surgery Grafts

Common graft options for ACL reconstruction include:​

• Patellar Tendon Autograft: Utilizes the central portion of the patient's patellar tendon, including bone plugs from the kneecap and shinbone.​

• Hamstring Tendon Autograft: Harvests tendons from the hamstring muscles, often resulting in less post-operative pain.​

• Allograft: Involves using tendon tissue from a donor, reducing surgery time and eliminating the need for graft harvesting.​

Selecting the Right Surgeon for ACL Surgery

When choosing an orthopedic surgeon, consider the following:

• Experience: Look for a surgeon with a proven track record in ACL reconstructions.​

• Patient Reviews: Assess feedback regarding patient satisfaction and outcomes.​

• Credentials: Verify board certification and specialized training.​

• Hospital Affiliation: Consider the quality of the associated medical facility.​

• Accessibility: Ensure the surgeon is within a reasonable distance for consultations and follow-ups.