ACL injuries are common among athletes as well as individuals who are active in sports. The ACL is a crucial ligament in the knee, which provides stability and aids in motions like pivoting jumping, and abrupt change in direction. Unfortunately, due to its weak healing capabilities, ACL reconstruction or surgery is usually required to restore full knee function following the tear.
It is possible to make educated decisions when you suffer from an ACL injury.
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The ACL’s role and the reason Reconstruction is Often Required
The ACL is the ligament connecting the bone of the femur with the tibia. It plays a crucial function in stabilizing your knee when you move it. The knee’s stability is significantly compromised when the ACL is damaged, whether because of a sudden turning and landing in a awkward manner or high-impact sports. ACL tears are characterised by swelling, pain as well as the feeling the knee feels like it’s “giving away”.
While minor injuries to other ligaments may sometimes heal with rest and rehabilitation, the ACL’s poor self-healing capability means surgery is often the most effective treatment. ACL surgery typically involves the repair of the ACL in the very rare case, or reshaping it using an ossiture-graft.
What exactly is ACL Reconstruction Surgery
ACL reconstruction involves the replacement of a torn ACL ligament with a brand new transplant. The graft may be from the body of the patient or a donor. The quadriceps and patellar tendons (BTB) are among the most common grafts. Each graft has its own unique benefits.
Quadriceps Tendon: This graft is known for its strength and low complications at the donor site. It provides reliable stability for athletes who have returned from sports that are high-impact.
Patellar Tendon (BTB): Sometimes referred to as the “gold standard” in ACL reconstruction This graft is perfect for people who need the most stability.
Dr. Burnham, a fellowship-trained ACL Surgeon, has conducted extensive research on these graft options, showing excellent outcomes in terms of knee stability, durability, and minimal long-term complications.
Advancements in ACL Reconstruction Techniques
ACL reconstructions have traditionally placed the ACL transplant in a non-anatomic location, which means that it was not aligned with the original ACL’s natural position. This often led to poor results, including less stability and an increased chance of re-injury. However, modern advancements in imaging technology and surgical research have transformed how ACL reconstruction is carried out.
Today, skilled ACL surgeons like Dr. Burnham use advanced techniques to insert the ligament precisely where the previous ACL was. This precise placement allows for greater alignment with the knee’s normal mechanics, resulting in a better function and stability. The advantages of this precise positioning include:
Reduced risk of re-injury
Better long-term knee health
The lower the risk of developing arthritis
Precision Matters: The Value of Graft Sizing
A successful ACL reconstruction depends on the proper size of the graft that is appropriate for the patient. With MRI imaging, in conjunction with direct surgical examinations, surgeons can tailor the graft for each person. A graft that’s too small will not give enough stability. A graft that’s too large can cause problems. ACL surgeons can maximize healing and performance by customizing every procedure to the individual patient.
Why Choose an ACL Surgeon who has been trained by a fellowship?
Your surgeon’s experience is important for your ACL procedure. A fellow-trained ACL Surgeons such as Dr. Burnham have extensive experience and have specialized training for treating severe knee injuries. They’re equipped with most modern surgical techniques, and are able to provide individual care for each patient, resulting in better outcomes.
Recover and Long-Term Benefits
With proper rehabilitation, patients who’ve undergone ACL reconstruction can return to their normal activities gradually. Physical therapy is a critical component of rehabilitation aiding in strengthening the muscles around and restore full range of motion.
ACL surgery has seen improvements through the years, which results in longer-lasting results including a decrease in the rate of injury recurrence, as well as improved knee stability. Modern ACL techniques are a fantastic option for those who want to return to the field, or regain an active lifestyle.
Final Thoughts
ACL reconstruction has come a long way, thanks to modern technology, research, and the experience of fellow-trained ACL surgeons like Dr. Burnham. By focusing on precision, high-end imaging technology, and customized treatment, modern surgical methods offer patients the best chances of a successful rehabilitation and lasting knee health.
Talk to an ACL surgeon if you suffer from an ACL injury. They can guide you through your options to ensure the best outcome.