ACL injuries are common among athletes as well as individuals who are active in sports. The ACL is a major ligament located in the knee. It provides stability and assists in moves like pivoting, hopping, and sudden direction changes. ACL reconstruction and surgery is often required to restore knee function following an injury due to the fact that it is not able to heal.
Understanding the ACL reconstruction procedure, the function of a specialist ACL surgeon, and the latest developments in surgical procedure can help you to make an informed decision about your treatment.
Image credit: jeremyburnhammd.com
The ACL The ACL: What is its role and why reconstruction is often needed
The ACL connects the femur (thighbone) and the tibia (shinbone). It plays a crucial role in stabilizing the joint of the knee whenever it moves. If the ACL is injured it may be result of a twisting motion that results in a sloppy position, or even a high-impact sports. The instability of the joint. ACL tears can cause inflammation and pain. They may also make you feel like your knee “gives out” during your activity.
While minor injuries to other ligaments can sometimes heal with treatment and rest, the ACL’s lack of self-healing capability means that surgery is typically the most effective solution. ACL surgery involves either rebuilding the ACL using a graft or repairing it in a few circumstances.
What exactly is ACL Reconstruction Surgery
ACL reconstruction is the replacement of a torn ACL ligament by a new graft. The graft can originate from the body of the patient or another donor. The quadriceps muscles and the patellar (BTB) are among the most frequently utilized grafts. Each of these grafts offers unique advantages.
Quadriceps Tendon : This graft is well-known for its strength and lack of complications with the donor site. It provides reliable stability for athletes returning from high-impact sports.
Patellar Tendon BTB (BTB) commonly referred to as the “gold standard”, this graft provides maximum stability to patients who need it.
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
In the past, ACL reconstruction techniques placed the graft in an unnatural position, meaning it didn’t precisely align with the original ligament’s natural location. This usually led to not the best results, such as decreased stability and a higher risk of injury recurrence. The technological advances in surgical research as well as imaging technology have changed the way we think about ACL reconstruction.
ACL surgeons today, like Dr. Burnham, use advanced techniques to repair the ACL exactly where it used to be. The position is anatomically accurate and is aligned with the knee’s natural mechanics. It improves function and stability. Benefits of precision include:
Reduction of risk of injuries
Better long-term knee health
Lower likelihood of developing arthritis
Precision Matters: The Value of Graft Sizing
ACL reconstruction’s success is contingent on the right size of the ACL graft. By using MRI imaging combined with direct surgical observations, the surgeon can tailor the graft for each individual. A graft that is too small won’t offer enough stability. A graft too big could cause complications. ACL surgeons can improve the healing process and function by tailoring every procedure to the individual patient.
Why Should You Choose an ACL Fellowship-Trained Surgeon?
The expertise of your surgeon is essential in the success of ACL surgery. Fellowship-trained ACL specialists, like Dr. Burnham are highly skilled and have vast experience with complex knee injuries. Their advanced knowledge of modern surgical techniques ensures that each patient receives individualized care and better results.
Recovery and Long-Term Benefits
A majority of patients can return to their previous levels of exercise following ACL reconstruction when they have the proper rehabilitation. Physical therapy plays a crucial role in recovering. It helps to strengthen surrounding muscles as well as restore flexibility.
Due to advances in ACL surgery, patients are now experiencing longer-term improvements, including decreased re-injury rate and better knee stability. Modern ACL reconstruction techniques can help you return to your active lifestyle, or returning to sports.
Final Thoughts
ACL reconstruction is a far away from what it was in the past, due to modern research, advanced technology and fellow-trained ACL specialists like Dr. Burnham. Modern techniques are built on precision, personalized care and the most advanced imaging. This gives patients the best chance to achieve long-term rehabilitation and knee health.
ACL injuries are difficult however an ACL specialist can help you discover your options and determine the best solution for you.