By: Kelly Waiksnoris, SPT
What is the ACL?
The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the major ligaments in the knee that aids in providing stabilization of the knee joint. This ligament connects the femur (thigh bone) to the tibia (shinbone) and is primarily responsible for preventing the tibia from excessive forward translation on the femur.
The ACL is commonly injured as a result of sport-specific movements, such as sudden stopping, quick directional changes, pivoting on a planted foot, or experiencing a direct blow to the knee. Often times, individuals report a “pop” in the knee followed by swelling, a sense of instability, and pain.
So, what is an ACL reconstruction?
ACL reconstruction is the surgical procedure in which the torn or injured ligament is replaced with a tissue graft. In some cases, physical therapy alone can be a non-surgical treatment approach for managing an ACL injury, but more often than not, surgery is recommended. If determining whether you are a good candidate for an ACL reconstruction, surgery is generally recommended if:
- More than one ligament is involved
- There is also a torn meniscus that requires repair
- You want to continue participation in sport
- Extent of ACL tear
There are various types of ACL reconstructions depending on the graft used to replace the torn ligament:
- Autograft reconstruction – tissue from one’s own body, commonly taken from the hamstring or patellar tendon.
- Allograft reconstruction – tissue from a cadaver (deceased donor).
Choosing A Graft…Hamstring vs. Patellar
When consulting your surgeon about which graft is best fit for your individual needs, it is important to be informed on the differences.
Hamstring Graft:
- Pros – smaller incision, less immediate pain, less pain in the front of the knee, motion is restored faster
- Cons – greater risk for requiring a revision, increased healing time
Patellar Graft:
- Pros – similarities in size and length to the ACL, faster and stronger healing method
- Cons – pain in the front of the knee (especially with kneeling), greater losses of motion
When surgery is required for an ACL reconstruction, choosing a graft is part of the process. For more information about ACL reconstruction and physical therapy, contact Capital Area Physical Therapy. Our clinics in Queensbury, Saratoga and Malta provide PT services for all types of hip and knee pain.
