The cruciate ligament consists of two ligaments that intersect in a cruciate manner to connect the bones of the thigh and leg. The anterior cruciate ligament connects the femur to the tibia to support the knee and maintain its normal range of motion.

Causes of anterior cruciate ligament tear

The anterior cruciate ligament may be torn during some sports activities as a result of:

     Stopping suddenly while running.

     Sudden change in direction of movement.

     Rotate firmly with your feet planted firmly on the floor.

     Falling to the ground the wrong way after jumping.

     Exposure to direct trauma to the knee.

Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction

Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction is a surgical procedure aimed at removing the torn ligament and replacing it with other ligament, such as tendons that connect muscles and bones. This ligament is called the “graft,” and the graft acts to support the growth of new ligament tissue. Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction is performed as follows:

     The graft (part of the tendon) is taken from another part of the patient’s knee, or from a deceased donor.

     The doctor makes tunnels in the femur and the tibia in order to precisely place the graft.

     The doctor attaches the graft to the bone using screws and other fixation devices.

Patients undergoing anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction procedures. 

The doctor recommends an anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction in the following cases:

     Injuries to athletes, especially those who play sports that require jumping or pivoting.

     More than one knee ligament is torn.

     Anterior cruciate ligament tear associated with a meniscus tear.

Results of anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction

Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with physical therapy succeeds in restoring the knee’s normal range of motion. Recovery for ordinary people takes approximately 9 months, and in the case of injured athletes, it may take up to 12 months.

Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction does not require a stay in the hospital. The patient can return home as soon as the anesthesia effect wears off and the body’s vital functions are reassured.

You can now book an appointment with Dr. Ibrahim Gado – Consultant Orthopedic Surgeon – by calling our clinic numbers available on our website.