ACL Reconstruction – Restoring Knee Stability for Active Lifestyles

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Regain Confidence and Stability in Your Knee

An Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) tear is a common and debilitating knee injury, especially among athletes and active individuals. It often results in a feeling of instability, “giving way” and prevents participation in sports or even daily activities. Mr. Raman Sethi specialises in ACL Reconstruction to restore stability to your knee, allowing you to regain confidence and return to your active lifestyle.
Mr. Raman Sethi is a fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeon with extensive experience in treating sports injuries, including complex ACL tears, helping patients get back in motion.

What is the ACL and Why is it Important?

A torn ACL often occurs during sudden twisting movements, awkward landings, or direct impact, commonly seen in sports like football, basketball, skiing, and netball. The ACL is one of the four major ligaments in your knee, located deep within the joint. It plays a crucial role in:

Stabilising the Knee

Preventing the shin bone (tibia) from sliding forward excessively relative to the thigh bone (femur).

Controlling Rotation

Limiting rotational movements of the knee.

ACL Reconstruction: The Procedure

When an ACL is completely torn, it typically cannot heal on its own and often requires surgical reconstruction to restore knee stability. The procedure involves:

Arthroscopic Technique : ACL reconstruction is typically performed using a minimally invasive arthroscopic technique. Small incisions are made around the knee, and a camera (arthroscope) and specialised instruments are inserted to visualise and work within the joint.
Tunnel Preparation : Tunnels are drilled in the thigh bone (femur) and shin bone (tibia) to precisely place the new graft.
Graft Placement and Fixation : The chosen graft is passed through these tunnels and secured with screws or other fixation devices to hold it in place while it heals and integrates with your bone.

The goal is to recreate a stable ligament that mimics the function of your original ACL.

Recovery and Rehabilitation: Your Path Back to Activity

Successful ACL reconstruction relies heavily on a dedicated and prolonged rehabilitation program.

Immediate Post-Op : You'll typically have a brace and crutches initially. Early physiotherapy focuses on reducing swelling, restoring range of motion, and protecting the new graft.
Structured Rehabilitation : A comprehensive physiotherapy program, guided by your physiotherapist and Mr. Sethi, will progress through stages of strengthening, balance, agility, and sport-specific training.
Return to Sport : Full return to demanding sports usually takes 9-12 months, or even longer, to allow the graft to mature and for your strength and neuromuscular control to return to pre-injury levels. Rushing this process can increase the risk of re-injury.

Mr. Sethi works closely with your physiotherapist to ensure a structured and safe return to your desired activities.

Why Choose Mr. Raman Sethi?

Sports Injury Expertise

As a lower limb orthopaedic surgeon with experience in trauma and sports injuries, Mr. Sethi possesses specific expertise in diagnosing and treating ACL tears.

Minimally Invasive Approach

He primarily utilises arthroscopic techniques for ACL reconstruction, which can lead to less pain, smaller scars, and potentially faster initial recovery.

Tailored Graft Selection

Mr. Sethi will discuss the various graft options and help you make an informed decision based on your activity level, age, and individual needs.

Collaborative Rehabilitation

He emphasizes a close working relationship with your physiotherapist to ensure a structured, safe, and effective rehabilitation program, crucial for a successful return to sport.

FAQs

Do all ACL tears require surgery?

No. Some less active individuals or those with partial tears may manage effectively with intensive non-surgical rehabilitation. However, for active individuals who wish to return to pivoting or cutting sports, surgical reconstruction is often recommended to restore stability.

What type of graft is best for ACL reconstruction?

There is no single "best" graft. Each type (autograft from hamstring, patellar tendon, or quadriceps tendon; or allograft from a donor) has pros and cons regarding strength, donor site pain, and recovery time. Mr. Sethi will discuss the most suitable option for you.

How long does it take to recover and return to sports after ACL surgery?

Full return to high-impact or pivoting sports typically takes 9-12 months, or sometimes longer. This timeframe is crucial for the graft to mature and for your strength and balance to return, minimising the risk of re-injury.

Will I need to wear a brace after ACL reconstruction?

Many patients wear a brace initially for protection and to manage swelling, but its long-term use for sports is debated. Your physiotherapist and Mr. Sethi will advise on brace usage as part of your rehabilitation plan.

What are the common risks of ACL reconstruction?

Risks include infection, blood clots, stiffness, persistent pain, graft re-tear, numbness around the incision, and complications from anesthesia. Mr. Sethi will discuss all potential risks with you prior to surgery.

Ready to Restore Stability to Your Knee?

If you’ve experienced an ACL injury, take the first step towards a confident return to activity. Schedule Your Consultation with Mr. Raman Sethi.