What does ACL surgery involve?

Reconstruction of the ACL is performed under a general anaesthetic. A tourniquet is inflated around your thigh to maintain a bloodless field during the surgery. Typically, two or three small incisions are made during a knee arthroscopy. One incision for the arthroscope and the others for the surgical instruments to treat the knee damage. A further 2–3cm incision will be made to harvest your hamstrings.

A piece of your hamstring will be used to reconstruct the anterior cruciate ligament. Fixation of the ligament will be achieved through a combination of a screw and endo-button. The keyhole techniques usually allow for a more rapid recovery than open techniques as well as shorter recovery times following surgery. A check x-ray will be undertaken to endure satisfactory placement of the screw and endo-button prior to your discharge from hospital. An overnight stay is hospital would be typical for ACL reconstruction surgery, but some patients will go home on the same day if confident to do so.