Arthroscopic ACL Reconstruction

1. What is Arthroscopic ACL Reconstruction?
The ACL is a strong ligament inside the knee that helps keep the knee stable. Arthroscopic reconstruction replaces a torn ACL through small incisions using a camera and specialised surgical instruments.

2. When is Treatment Recommended?
It may be recommended after a significant or complete ACL tear, particularly when the knee remains unstable, the patient wants to return to sports, or associated injuries such as a meniscus tear are present.

3. What Symptoms May a Patient Notice?
Common symptoms include knee pain, swelling, a feeling that the knee is giving way, difficulty walking or running, and instability when turning or changing direction.

4. What Does the Treatment Involve?
The surgeon uses an arthroscope to examine the knee and replaces the damaged ACL with a tendon graft, which is secured inside the knee to provide stability.

5. What Are the Main Treatment Options?
Grafts may include hamstring, patellar tendon or quadriceps tendon autografts, while donor tissue may be used in selected cases. The choice depends on the patient's age, activity level and knee condition.

6. How Long Does Treatment & Recovery Take?
The procedure commonly takes around 1–2 hours and is often performed as a day-care or short-stay procedure. Recovery generally takes 6–12 months, with structured physiotherapy essential for returning to sports.

7. What Are the Important Risks or Considerations?
Arthroscopic ACL reconstruction has favourable outcomes, with published studies reporting approximately 80% of patients returning to their previous level of sport or recreational activity. Individual recovery depends on graft choice, associated injuries and rehabilitation.

8. Why Consider Treatment in India?
India has specialised orthopaedic and sports-medicine centres performing arthroscopic ACL reconstruction and other complex knee procedures, providing international patients access to experienced surgeons and modern rehabilitation facilities.

9. How Can Medavelle Help?
Medavelle can assist with MRI and medical report review, orthopaedic specialist and hospital coordination, treatment planning, international patient arrangements and follow-up coordination.

10. What Should the Patient Do Next?
Share your MRI/reports → Orthopaedic evaluation → Knee assessment → Treatment recommendation → Treatment planning in India.