ACL injuries affect both athletes as well as non-athletes in United States. The ACL, which is located in the knee, offers stability to the joint and helps with movements such as pivoting, jumping, and directional changes. 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, understanding the process of ACL reconstruction and the role of an experienced ACL surgeon, as well as the latest developments in surgical techniques can assist you to make informed decisions regarding your treatment.
The ACL’s Role and Why Reconstruction is Often Required
The ACL connects the femur (thigh bone) to the tibia (shin bone), playing a crucial function in stabilizing knee joints during movement. The stability of the knee is greatly affected when the ACL is damaged, whether from a sudden turn and landing in a awkward manner or high-impact sports. ACL tears are characterised by pain, swelling, and the sensation the knee feels like it’s “giving away”.
ACLs have less self-healing capabilities than other ligaments, and therefore surgery is the only effective option to treat them. ACL surgery typically involves repair of the ligament in very uncommon cases or reconstructing the ligament using a tendon transplant.
What is ACL Reconstruction Surgery
ACL reconstruction involves replacing the ligament that has been damaged by a graft that can be sourced from either the patient’s own body (autograft) or a donor (allograft). Two of the most frequently used grafts are the quadriceps tendon as well as the patellar tendon (BTB). Each of these grafts has unique benefits.
Quadriceps Tendon : This graft is well-known for its strength and minimal complications at the donor site. It offers stability for athletes returning from sports that are high-impact.
Patellar Tendon BTB: This transplant, which is often described by physicians as “the gold standard” for ACL reconstructions, is ideal for those who need the highest stability.
Dr. Burnham is a fellowship-trained ACL Surgeon who has performed extensive research into these grafts. The results are fantastic regarding knee strength and stability.
Advancements in ACL Reconstruction Techniques
The past experience has been that ACL reconstruction techniques placed the graft in a non-anatomic position, i.e. it didn’t precisely align with the natural position of the ligament. This could result in poor results including instability and increased risk of re-injury. The modern technological advances in surgical research as well as imaging technology have changed the way we think about ACL reconstruction.
ACL surgeons, like Dr. Burnham today, use advanced methods to place the new ACL exactly in the location where the original ACL was previously. This is anatomically precise and is in line with the knee’s natural mechanics. It enhances function and stability. This precision has many benefits and benefits, such as:
Reducing the risk of Re-injury
Better long-term knee health
Greater chance of avoiding developing arthritis
The focus is on precision: the significance of the sizing of grafts
One of the essential aspects of a successful ACL reconstruction is ensuring the graft is the perfect size to fit the knee of the patient. Utilizing MRI imaging, in conjunction with direct surgical observation, the surgeon is able customize the graft to fit each person. A graft that’s too small may not be stable enough as a graft is too large could cause problems. ACL surgeons design the procedure to each patient to ensure optimal the healing process and functionality.
Why Choose a Fellowship-Trained ACL Surgeon?
The expertise of your surgeon is vital for the success of your ACL operation. The surgeons who are fellow-trained ACL Surgeons like Dr. Burnham have extensive experience and specialized training in treating severe knee injuries. They’re equipped with latest surgical techniques and can provide personalized care to each patient, which results in better results.
Benefits of Recovering and Long-Term
Following ACL reconstruction, the majority of patients can anticipate a gradual return to their previous levels of activity if they undergo proper rehabilitation. Physical therapy is a crucial element of rehabilitation and helps to strengthen the surrounding muscles and regain the full range of motion.
ACL surgery has seen improvements over the years, resulting in longer-lasting results for example, a lower chance of re-injury, and increased knee stability. Modern ACL procedures are an excellent option for those who want to return to the field, or regain an active lifestyle.
Final Thoughts
ACL reconstructions have come a long, path thanks to the latest technology, research and experience of fellowship trained ACL surgeons such as Dr. Burnham. The current techniques are based on precision, customized care and advanced imaging. This provides patients with the best chance to achieve long-term recovery and knee health.
If you’re suffering from an ACL injury, consulting an expert ACL surgeon will allow you to find the best options and ensure the best result for your unique needs.
