Anterior Cruciate Ligament, or ACL, is another name for a tear in the ligament that runs diagonally across the middle of your knee. The main job of this ligament is to keep the tibia from sliding in front of the femur. It also helps keep the knee stable when it rotates. In most instances, the tear is partial, but there are also several reasons for total tears. During an ACL injury, the surrounding cartilage and ligaments are also impacted.
This is one of the most prevalent knee ailments and is often suffered by persons who participate in intense sports. In particular, basketball, soccer, and football players are susceptible to this knee ailment. It is far more prevalent in women due to differences in physical fitness, muscle strength, and neuromuscular control.
It is mostly a sports-related injury, although it may also be caused by falls, work-related injuries, or car accidents. In circumstances of sports injuries, such as tackling or landing from a jump, the injury occurs without direct touch with another participant. It may also occur during intense exercises that place a great deal of strain on the knee. In other instances, ACL injuries are induced by an abrupt change in direction or slowing down while the body is in motion. Numerous examples occur when there is a quick leap or when the individual plants their knees firmly while turning. In other situations, a direct strike to the knee or any other kind of contact may cause an ACL tear.
The most common sign is instability of Knee, but there are many others, including:
An ACL injury is often treated based on the individual's particular requirements. In situations involving younger athletes, surgical intervention is required.
Injuries to the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) cannot recover without surgery; however, the procedure becomes too burdensome for elderly patients, and other treatments are offered. Particularly when the knee is intact, non-surgical treatment alternatives are indicated.
Numerous physicians recommend bracing, which includes wearing a brace to reduce knee instability. Using a crutch is another option for avoiding excessive strain on your wounded leg. After the swelling subsides, physical treatment is advised. A rehabilitation regimen that involves specific exercises is recommended. These help in knee function restoration and leg muscle strengthening.
This includes ligament reconstruction. In most ACL injuries, it is impossible to sew back the tears. Therefore, the ligament must be reconstructed to restore knee stability. The surgeon, Dr. Sharad Gupta will replace the injured ligament with a tissue transplant. In turn, this graft serves as the foundation for the growth of the new ligament. The grafts may be sourced from numerous locations. The patellar tendon, which runs between the shinbone and kneecap, is the most common. The hamstring tendons found at the back of the thighs are another source. The quadriceps tendon, located between the thigh and kneecap, is another typical transplant source. In many instances, cadaver grafts are also an option.
However, utilising grafts has both advantages and disadvantages. Before deciding on the best solution, it is recommended to have a full conversation with the orthopaedic surgeon. Even after surgery, it takes around six months or more before the wounded may return to an active sports lifestyle.
Any surgery connected to an ACL injury includes the reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament using an arthroscope and tiny incisions. This is the optimal choice since it is less intrusive. This results in less discomfort and less time spent in the hospital. It also expedites the healing process.
