Arthroscopic Anterior Cruciate Ligament Surgery

Posted On: 04-28-2015

What is Arthroscopic Anterior Cruciate Ligament Surgery?

During arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) surgery, a torn ACL in the knee is repaired with a piece of the patellar or another tendon. This procedure is performed with a minimally invasive method that utilizes an arthroscope (a narrow tube with a video camera on its end) inserted through small incisions in order to guide the surgeon through the procedure.

Also Known As:

Arthroscopic ACL reconstruction surgery
Arthroscopic ACL surgery
ACL surgery
Knee arthroscopy
Arthroscopic surgery
Knee surgery

Conditions Treated with Arthroscopic Anterior Cruciate Ligament Surgery:

Arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament surgery is performed in order to treat a torn anterior cruciate ligament.

Arthroscopic Anterior Cruciate Ligament Surgery by OrangeCountySurgeons

Non-Surgical or Other Surgical Alternatives to Arthroscopic Anterior Cruciate Ligament Surgery:

Non-surgical alternatives to arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament surgery include strength training, physical therapy, and the use of a walking aid, hinged knee brace, or soft knee brace. Open anterior cruciate ligament surgery is a surgical alternative.

Anesthesia with Arthroscopic Anterior Cruciate Ligament Surgery:

Arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament surgery can be performed with regional anesthesia. It can also be performed under general anesthesia, which means that the patient is asleep and completely unaware during the procedure.

Potential Complications from Arthroscopic Anterior Cruciate Ligament Surgery:

Possible risks following arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament surgery include infection, bleeding and a negative reaction to the anesthesia that is used. It is also possible to experience loss of motion, pain behind the kneecap and secondary knee damage. Bone growth problems can occur in children.

Recovery from Arthroscopic Anterior Cruciate Ligament Surgery:

Recovery after arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament surgery is six to nine months.