ACL Surgery

General or regional anaesthesia is administered to ensure comfort throughout the procedure.

A replacement ligament is prepared using either the patient’s own tendon or donor tissue.

Using minimally invasive arthroscopic techniques, the surgeon examines the knee through small incisions, removes the torn ACL and treats any associated injuries, such as meniscal damage.

The graft is positioned in the correct anatomical location through small tunnels in the thigh and shin bones and secured with specialised fixation devices to restore knee stability.

The incisions are closed and the knee is dressed. The site is then supported with a brace to protect the reconstruction during early recovery.

Surgery is usually recommended if the ACL tear causes knee instability, especially during activities like running, jumping or pivoting, or if non-surgical treatments (rest, physiotherapy, bracing) fail to restore stability.

A completely torn ACL does not heal on its own because of limited blood supply to the ligament. While some individuals may cope with rehabilitation alone, especially if they have lower activity demands, persistent instability often indicates the need for reconstruction to restore knee function and prevent further joint damage.

If left untreated, an ACL tear can result in chronic knee instability. Repeated abnormal movement between the thighbone and shinbone places ongoing stress on the joint, leading to persistent pain and a higher risk of meniscal or cartilage damage. Over time, this can significantly increase the likelihood of developing post-traumatic osteoarthritis.

ACL reconstruction typically involves replacing the torn ligament with a tendon graft, which may be taken from the patient’s own tissue (autograft) or from a donor (allograft). The procedure is usually performed using minimally invasive arthroscopic techniques, with open surgery considered only in more complex cases.

The timing of return to work depends on job demands. Desk-based roles may be resumed within a few weeks, while physically demanding work usually requires a longer recovery period. Return to sports is typically considered 6–12 months after surgery, once knee strength, stability and functional performance meet rehabilitation goals.