ACL injuries are frequent among athletes and people who participate in sports. The ACL, which is located in the knee area, provides stability to the joint. It also assists in movements like pivoting, jumping and directional shifts. ACL reconstruction and surgeries are frequently required in order to restore knee function after a tear due to the inability of healing.
If you’ve been diagnosed with an ACL injury, understanding the procedure for ACL reconstruction as well as the role played by an expert ACL surgeon, and advancements in surgical techniques will help you make informed decisions about the treatment you’ll receive.
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The ACL’s Role and Why Reconstruction is Often Required
The ACL is the ligament connecting the femur to the tibia. It plays a vital function in stabilizing your knee while you move. When the ACL is damaged it is usually caused by a twisting movement that results in a sloppy posture, or even during a high-impact sports. This compromises the stability of the joint. ACL tears can lead to inflammation and pain. They can also make the knee feel as if it “gives out” during your activity.
Although minor injuries to other ligaments can sometimes heal with rest and rehabilitation, the weak self-healing ability means that surgery is often the best option. ACL surgery involves either reconstructing the ACL using a graft or fixing it in rare circumstances.
What is ACL Reconstruction Surgery?
ACL reconstruction involves replacing the torn ligament with a graft. The graft can be sourced from either the patient’s own body (autograft) or a donor (allograft). Two of the most commonly utilized grafts are the quadriceps tendon (BTB) and the patellar tendon (BTB). Each graft type has specific advantages.
Quadriceps Tendon: This graft is renowned for its strength and minimal donor-site complications. It provides reliable stability for athletes returning from high-impact sports.
Patellar Tendon BTB (BTB) is often referred to as the “gold standard”, this graft provides maximum stability to patients who require 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
The past was when ACL reconstruction techniques placed the graft in an abnormal position. This meant that it didn’t align with the normal position of the ligament. This often resulted in suboptimal outcomes, including reduced stability, as well as an increased chance of injury recurrence. Modern advances in imaging technology and surgical research have changed how ACL reconstruction is performed.
Today, experienced ACL surgeons such as Dr. Burnham use advanced techniques to place the ligament precisely where the previous ACL was. This precise placement allows for greater alignment with the knee’s natural mechanics, which results in better stability and function. The benefits of this precision include:
Reduced risk of re-injury
Better long-term knee health
Lower likelihood of developing arthritis
How to Measure the Size of Grafts with Accuracy
A successful ACL reconstruction is contingent on the appropriate size of the graft that is appropriate for the patient. With the help of MRI imaging as well as direct surgical observations, surgeons can tailor the graft for the patient’s anatomy. A graft that’s too tiny may not be able to withstand the strain as a graft is oversized can cause complications. ACL surgeons can customize the procedure for each patient to optimize the healing process and functionality.
Why choose an ACL Fellowship-Trained Surgeon?
The knowledge and experience of your surgeon plays an important factor in the success of your ACL surgery. A fellowship-trained ACL surgeons, such as Dr. Burnham, have specialized knowledge and expertise in managing knee injuries of a complex nature. The advanced surgical techniques they use ensure that each patient receives personalized treatment, which leads to better outcomes.
Recovery and long-term benefits
The majority of patients will slowly return to the previous levels of activity following ACL reconstruction with the right rehabilitation. Physical therapy is an essential component of rehabilitation. It will help in strengthening the muscles around it, and restore the range of motion.
ACL surgery has improved the long-term outcome of patients who undergo the procedure, resulting in lower rates of the re-injury and improved 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 ACL techniques for reconstruction offer an opportunity to find relief that lasts.
Final Thoughts
ACL reconstructions have made a stride way due to the most recent techniques, research and knowledge of fellowship trained ACL surgeons such as Dr. Burnham. Modern surgical techniques emphasize precision, advanced imaging and customized care, giving patients the greatest chance for the best long-term and successful healing.
If you’re experiencing the possibility of an ACL injury, talking to an expert ACL surgeon will help you determine your options and get the best results to meet your specific needs.