Anterior Cruciate Ligament Tear Surgery

Although anterior cruciate ligament rupture is known as a sports injury, it can also be seen in non-athletes. Anterior cruciate ligament tear surgery is a surgical intervention performed in case of tearing of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL – Anterior Cruciate Ligament), which provides knee stability. Depending on the severity of the damage in the cruciate ligament tear, surgical and non-operative options can be evaluated. This ligament is located between the thigh bone (femur) and the shin bone (tibia) and stabilizes the knee from front to back. Rupture and injury of the anterior cruciate ligament can be caused by sudden anterior displacement and knee rotation, a sudden fall to the ground as a result of jumping, a blow to the knee and usually sports injuries. Surgery aims to reconstruct the torn ligament so that it can perform its function again.

What are the symptoms of a cruciate ligament tear?

The most common symptoms of anterior cruciate ligament rupture are

• Sudden feeling of ejaculation in the knee
• Severe pain and swelling
• Decreased mobility
• Locking or sticking sensation in the knee
• Difficulty maintaining sports activities

Such symptoms can lead to serious performance losses, especially in individuals who lead active lives. Therefore, early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are of great importance.

When is anterior cruciate ligament tear surgery necessary?

Not every anterior cruciate ligament tear requires surgery. Mild tears can be treated with physical therapy and muscle strengthening exercises. However, surgical intervention becomes inevitable in the following cases:

• Complete rupture of the ligament
• Continued feeling of instability in the knee
• Patients who want to continue practicing sports
• Damage to other knee structures (meniscus, lateral ligaments)
• Young and active individuals

How is anterior cruciate ligament tear surgery performed?

Anterior cruciate ligament tear surgery is usually performed by arthroscopic surgery. In closed surgery, an arthroscopy camera is inserted into small incisions on the knee and surgical instruments are used. The surgeon creates a new ligament with tendon tissue, usually taken from the patient’s own knee or from a donor. This new ligament is inserted into the knee through bone tunnels and held in place with screws or special fixation devices.

The operation takes 1-2 hours on average and the patient can usually be discharged the same day.

Postoperative Recovery Process

Physical therapy after cruciate ligament surgery is critical. In the first weeks, swelling of the knee is reduced and movement is gradually restored. In the next stages, muscle strengthening exercises begin. It may take 6 to 9 months for athletes to return to the field. Following the recommendations of the doctor and physiotherapist is of great importance for a successful recovery.