ACL injuries impact both non-athletes and athletes in the United States. The ACL is a major ligament in the knee that provides stability and aids in moves like pivoting, jumping, and sudden direction changes. Unfortunately, due to its poor healing potential, ACL Reconstruction or surgery is often required to restore full knee function after a tear.
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It is possible to make educated decisions if you have an ACL injury.
The Function of the ACL and the Reasons Reconstruction Is Often Necessary
The ACL connects femur, (thighbone) and the tibia (shinbone). It plays a crucial role in stabilizing the knee joint as it moves. The knee’s stability is greatly diminished when the ACL is injured, whether due to a sudden change and landing in a awkward manner or high-impact sports. ACL tears can lead to discomfort and swelling. They could also cause you feel like your knee “gives out” when you’re active.
Although minor injuries to other ligaments can occasionally heal through rest and rehabilitation, the ACL’s lack of self-healing capabilities mean surgery is often the most effective solution. ACL surgery typically involves healing the ligament in some rare cases or reconstructing the ligament using a tendon transplant.
What is ACL Reconstruction Surgery
ACL reconstruction is the replacement of the torn ACL with the aid of a tissue. The graft may come from the patient (autograft) or it could be a donation from the donor. The quadriceps tendons and the patellar (BTB) are two of most commonly used grafts. Each graft has unique advantages:
Quadriceps Tendon is a well-known graft with a strong strength and low donor site complications this graft can provide stability particularly for athletes who are returning to high-impact sports.
Patellar Tendon BTB (BTB) is often referred to as the “gold standard”, this graft offers maximum stability for patients who require it.
Dr. Burnham is a fellowship-trained ACL Surgeon who has done extensive research into these grafts. The results are fantastic in terms of knee durability and stability.
Advancements in ACL Reconstruction Techniques
The past was when ACL reconstruction methods placed the graft in an unnatural location. This meant it didn’t align with the position of the ligament. This often resulted in inadequate results, which included lower stability as well as a higher risk of injury recurrence. Modern advances in surgical research and imaging technology have transformed ACL reconstruction.
Today, expert ACL surgeons like Dr. Burnham use advanced techniques to insert the ligament precisely where the original ACL was located. The position is anatomically accurate and aligns with the knee’s natural mechanics. It improves function and stability. The benefits of this precision include:
Lowering the chance of Re-injury
Better long-term knee health
A lower risk of developing arthritis
Precision Matters: The Value of Graft Sizing
One of the key aspects of successful ACL reconstruction is ensuring the graft has the ideal size for the knee of the patient. Utilizing a combination of MRI imaging and direct surgical observation, surgeons can adapt the graft according to the patient’s anatomy. A graft that is too small could not be able to withstand the strain as a graft is too large can lead to complications. ACL surgeons can improve the process of healing and functional by customizing each procedure for the patient.
Why should you select a fellowship-trained ACL surgeon?
The expertise of your surgeon is vital to the success of your ACL operation. Fellowship-trained ACL specialists, such as Dr. Burnham are highly skilled and have a wealth of experience dealing with complicated knee injuries. They’re equipped with the most modern surgical techniques, and are able to provide personalized care to each patient, leading to better results.
Recover, as well as long-term benefits
When they have a proper treatment plan, patients who have undergone ACL reconstruction are able to return to their normal levels of activity gradually. Physical therapy is a vital component of rehabilitation. It helps strengthen the muscles surrounding them and help restore range of motion.
Because of advances in ACL surgery patients are experiencing improved long-term outcomes, which include decreased re-injury rate and enhanced knee stability. It doesn’t matter if you’re an athlete hoping for a return to play or an individual seeking to resume an active lifestyle, the latest ACL reconstructive techniques can provide an opportunity to find relief that lasts.
Final Thoughts
ACL reconstruction has become a far way from the condition it was in the past, thanks in part to research, modern technology and fellowship-trained ACL specialists like Dr. Burnham. Today’s methods are based on precision, personalized care as well as advanced imaging. This gives patients the greatest chance for long-term recovery as well as knee health.
If you’re experiencing the possibility of an ACL injury, consulting an experienced ACL surgeon can help navigate your options and achieve the best results for your particular requirements.