ACL injuries are common among athletes and people who participate in sports. The ACL is a major ligament in the knee that provides stability and aids in motions like pivoting leaping, and sudden change in direction. Unfortunately, due to its poor healing potential, ACL Reconstruction or surgery is often required to restore full knee function after a tear.
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If you’ve been diagnosed with an ACL injury, knowing the procedure for ACL reconstruction and the function of an experienced ACL surgeon, and advances in surgical techniques can help make an informed decision about the treatment you’ll receive.
The role of the ACL and Why Reconstruction Is Often Necessary
The ACL connects femur, (thighbone) and tibia, (shinbone). It is vital in stabilizing the knee joint when it moves. If the ACL is injured, be it due to a sudden twist, landing awkwardly, or intense sports, the knee’s strength is greatly compromised. The signs of an ACL tear can include pain, swelling, and a feeling of the knee “giving out” in the course of activity.
ACL injuries don’t heal themselves, and while they can be treated with rest or rehabilitation in certain instances surgical intervention is typically the best option. ACL surgery usually involves healing the ligament in some rare instances or reconstructing it with a tendon graft.
What Is ACL Reconstruction Surgery?
ACL reconstruction is the process of replacing the ruptured ACL by an graft. This graft can come directly from the patient (autograft), or it may come from the donor. Two of the most widely utilized grafts are the quadriceps tendon and the patellar tendon (BTB). Each of these grafts comes with distinct advantages:
Quadriceps tendon: Because of its strength and strength, as well as the lack of complications at the site of donor This graft provides stable stability, especially for athletes who return to high-impact sport.
Patellar Tendon (BTB): Often referred to as the “gold standard” in ACL reconstruction, this graft is ideal for individuals requiring maximum stability.
Dr. Burnham has extensive experience as a fellowship-trained ACL surgeon. He has performed extensive research to find the most suitable graft solution for knee stability and durability. There are also no long-term effects.
Advancements in ACL Reconstruction Techniques
ACL reconstructions have historically placed the ACL graft in an not-anatomic area, which means that it wasn’t aligned with the original ACL’s natural position. This method often resulted in poor results, including decreased stability and an increased risk of recurrence. However, recent advances in imaging technology and surgical research have changed the way ACL reconstruction is carried out.
Today, skilled ACL surgeons such as Dr. Burnham use advanced techniques to put the ligament precisely where the original ACL was. The placement is atomically correct and is in line with the knee’s natural mechanics. It enhances function and stability. The advantages of this accuracy include:
In reducing the risk of the re-injury
Better long-term knee health
A lower risk of developing arthritis
Precision Matters: What is the Importance of Graft Sizing
One of the key aspects of a successful ACL reconstruction is ensuring the graft is in the correct dimension for the knee of the patient. Utilizing a combination of MRI imaging and direct surgical observations surgeons can adjust the graft to each patient’s anatomy. A graft that’s too small will not offer enough stability. A graft that is too large could cause problems. ACL surgeons can speed up the healing process and function by tailoring every procedure to the individual patient.
Why should you choose a fellowship-trained ACL surgeon?
The knowledge and experience of your surgeon plays a significant role in the success of your ACL surgery. Fellow-trained ACL Surgeons like Dr. Burnham have extensive experience and training specifically for the treatment of difficult knee injuries. They are equipped with the latest surgical techniques and can provide individualized treatment to each patient, leading to better outcomes.
Recovery and Long-Term Benefits
With proper rehabilitation, patients who have undergone ACL reconstruction are able to return to their regular levels of activity gradually. Physical therapy is a critical component of rehabilitation aiding in strengthening the surrounding muscles and restore full range of motion.
With the advancements in ACL surgery the patients are now seeing better long-term results, including lower rates of re-injury and improved knee stability. Modern ACL reconstruction techniques can help you regain your active lifestyle, or return to sport.
Final Thoughts
ACL reconstructions have made a stride path thanks to the latest technology, research and expertise of fellowship trained ACL surgeons like Dr. Burnham. Modern surgical techniques focus on precision, cutting-edge imaging, and personalized care to give patients the highest chance of lasting and effective healing.
ACL injuries are complicated But an ACL specialist will assist you to learn about your options and help you find the best option for you.