ACL (anterior cruciate ligament)

The ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) is a band of tough, fibrous tissue that stabilizes the knee. Injuries to the ACL are very common, especially among active patients. Treatment depends on the severity of the injury and how active you hope to be in the future.  For severe ACL injuries, you may need a procedure called ACL reconstruction. This surgery uses a graft (new tissue) to replace the torn ligament.

ACL reconstruction is performed using arthroscopic techniques.  Patients undergoing ACL reconstruction are usually given a nerve block, which helps decrease pain for several hours after surgery, and a general anesthetic. The graft may be a ligament or tendon from your own knee or from a donor.  Typically the patient goes home the same day of the surgery.