Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Reconstruction

What Is the ACL?

The ACL is one of the key ligaments in the knee, connecting the thigh bone (femur) to the shin bone (tibia). It plays an essential role in stabilizing the knee during pivoting, cutting, and twisting motions. An ACL tear often occurs during high-impact sports or activities involving sudden changes in direction.

Symptoms of an ACL Injury

An ACL injury may present with:

• A "popping" sound or sensation at the time of injury.
• Immediate swelling and pain in the knee.
• Instability or the knee "giving out" during activity.
• Difficulty bearing weight on the affected leg.
• Limited range of motion in the knee joint.

If you experience these symptoms, a specialist evaluation is critical to confirm the injury and develop a treatment plan.

When Is ACL Reconstruction Necessary?

ACL reconstruction is often recommended for:

• Complete tears of the ACL, especially in active individuals or athletes.
• Persistent knee instability despite non-surgical treatment.
• Associated injuries, such as meniscus tears or cartilage damage.
• Patients seeking to return to high-demand activities or sports.

Advanced ACL Reconstruction at Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush

At Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush, our team uses cutting-edge techniques to deliver precise and effective ACL reconstruction.

Graft Options for Reconstruction

• Autografts: Tendons from the patient’s own body, such as the patellar tendon, hamstring, or quadriceps tendon, are used to replace the torn ACL.
• Allografts: Tendons from a donor are used, often for patients who want to avoid harvesting their own tissue or for revision surgeries.

Minimally Invasive Techniques

• Arthroscopic Surgery: Using small incisions and a camera, our surgeons repair or replace the ACL with minimal disruption to surrounding tissues.
• Anatomic Reconstruction: Techniques that precisely replicate the natural anatomy of the ACL to optimize knee function and stability.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Recovery after ACL reconstruction involves:

• Initial Recovery: Patients often wear a brace and use crutches for support in the first few weeks. Swelling and discomfort are managed with ice, elevation, and medication.
• Physical Therapy: A structured rehabilitation program begins shortly after surgery, focusing on regaining strength, flexibility, and stability.
• Return to Activity: Most patients return to low-impact activities within 3-6 months and high-demand sports after 9-12 months, depending on progress and surgeon guidance.

Why Choose Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush?

Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush is a nationally recognized leader in sports medicine and orthopedic surgery. Our fellowship-trained specialists are experts in ACL reconstruction, combining innovative techniques with a patient-centered approach. Whether you’re a professional athlete or an active individual, our goal is to help you achieve a full recovery and prevent future injuries.