ACL-Op

Cruciate ligament op: General

In many cases, a cruciate ligament rupture can be treated without surgery. For a surgical treatment (cruciate ligament surgery), but it decides, for example, in athletes, because this brings the best long-term results. During surgery, the injured ACL is restored (sewn) or replaced. There are a variety of surgical techniques. Nowadays, a cruciate ligament surgery is performed almost exclusively minimally invasive (arthroscopic).

Outpatient or inpatient

Sometimes, a cruciate ligament surgery is performed on an outpatient basis, usually stationary. For inpatient surgery, patients usually have to stay in the hospital for a maximum of five days. They are extensively cared for after the cruciate ligament surgery and can begin physiotherapy in the clinic.

Full or partial anesthesia

A cruciate ligament surgery can be performed either in full or partial anesthesia. Partial anesthesia is awake during the operation. The area of ​​operation is so stupefied that you feel no pain. The surgery takes one to two hours depending on the technique, extent of injury and experience of the surgeon.

Cruciate ligament replacement (cruciate ligament plastic)

A torn cruciate ligament can sometimes be easily sewn. In many cases (especially if the band is completely torn), however, a cruciate ligament replacement is necessary. There are basically three types of graft types:

• Autograft: Another patient’s tendon is used as a replacement for his torn cruciate ligament, for example a piece of the patellar tendon.
• Allograft: The graft is the tendon of a donor.
• Synthetic cruciate ligament replacement

Cruciate ligament op: aftertreatment

After the cruciate ligament tear, the knee is usually stabilized in a splint for some time. These rails usually allow the gradual expansion of the range of motion.

The cruciate ligament rick rehabilitation is started as soon as possible after the procedure. Initially, the knee is usually mainly passively moved by the physiotherapist (by the therapist). Then follow a slow muscle growth and coordination exercises. The goal is that the knee finally reaches its full range of motion and is sufficiently stable. In addition, individual aspects – especially sports-specific requirements (such as professional athletes) – are taken into account. Decisive for the success of the physiotherapy after a cruciate ligament op is beside the qualification of the therapist also the motivation and co-operation of the patient.

Kreuzband-Op: When is sport possible again?

There are no clear recommendations as to when someone can return to their usual sport after a cruciate ligament operation. It usually takes several months. Patients should discuss with their attending physician when and to what extent they can exercise again. A premature re-entry into the sport threatens new injuries and also a loss of the cruciate ligament plastic. Even after completing the rehab, keep in mind that the affected knee is more sensitive to re-injury.

Cruciate ligament op: chances of success

The aim of the cruciate ligament rupture surgery is to maintain the normal knee mechanics and stability with the best possible reconstruction. This works well in most cases. However, the results of operations on the posterior cruciate ligament are not as good as on the anterior cruciate ligament.

In the case of cruciate ligament surgery, a body-own tendon is usually used as a transplant, so that no rejection reactions are to be expected. The healing process usually runs smoothly. Rarely does the graft tear or loosen after the operation.

Possible complaints after surgery are reduced range of motion of the knee joint and laxity of the ligamentous apparatus. Among the complications of a ACL-Op include infections, broken bones, venous thrombosis, vascular and nerve injuries