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  • Q&A with Australian Health Practitioners

    What is an ACL?

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    Thanks

    A/Prof Keran Sundaraj

    Orthopaedic Surgeon

    Dr Sundaraj is a fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS) and the Australian Orthopaedic Association (AOA). Dr Sundaraj attended medical school at … View Profile

    The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is a 38mm long band of fibrous tissue that connects the femur (thigh bone) to the tibia (shin bone). Its function is to control stability when performing twisting actions. The cruciate ligament is usually not required for normal daily living activities. However, it is essential in controlling the rotation forces developed during side stepping, pivoting and landing from a jump. The ACL is commonly injured whilst playing ball sports or skiing. Whilst playing ball sports, upon attempting a pivot, sidestep or land from a jump, the knee gives way. When skiing, the ACL is injured when the binding fails to release as the ski twists the leg. Patients frequently hear or feel a snap or crack accompanied by pain. Swelling commonly occurs within the hour. Often pain is felt on the outer aspect of the knee. The medial ligament of the knee joint may also be disrupted, resulting in severe pain and swelling about the inner side of the joint.

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