Possible Complications
Problems are rare, but all procedures have some risk. The doctor will go over some problems that could happen, such as:
- Excess bleeding
- Problems from anesthesia, such as wheezing or sore throat
- Infection
- Blood clots
- Surgery does not ease symptoms
- The knee becomes unstable
- Numbness or stiffness in the knee
Things that may raise the risk of problems are:
- Smoking
- Drinking excess alcohol
- Chronic diseases, such as diabetes or obesity
Reasons for Procedure
This surgery is done in people who have not been helped by other methods, such as physical therapy and bracing. It is also done when a person has loss of function and problems doing activities.
What to Expect
Prior to Procedure
The surgical team may meet with you to talk about:
- Anesthesia options
- Any allergies you may have
- Current medicines, herbs, and supplements that you take and whether you need to stop taking them before surgery
- Fasting before surgery, such as avoiding food or drink after midnight the night before
- Arranging for a ride to and from surgery
- Tests that will need to be done before surgery, such as an x-ray or an MRI
scan to take pictures
Anesthesia
The doctor may give:
- General anesthesia—you will be
asleep
- Spinal anesthesia—your
lower body will be numbed
Description of the Procedure
A tendon in the knee or hamstring will be used to reconstruct the torn ligament. Sometimes a donor graft is used. The tendon will be formed to the correct size.
A few small cuts will be made on the top of the knee. Tools
will be placed them. The torn ACL will be removed. Any other damage to the knee may
also be repaired. Holes will be drilled through bones in the thigh and shin. The new
graft will be placed through these holes. Needles may be threaded through the holes
to hold the new tendon in place. Other devices, such as screws, washers, or staples
are also used to hold the graft in place. The cuts will be closed with stitches.
Once the graft is securely in place, the knee’s range of motion will be tested. Other tests will be done as well. The skin will be closed with stitches. Bandages will be used.
How Long Will It Take?
About 2 hours
Will It Hurt?
Anesthesia prevents pain during surgery. Pain and swelling are
common in the first 1 to 2 weeks. Medicine and home care can help manage it.
Average Hospital Stay
You may be able to go home the same day. If you have problems, you may need to stay longer.
Post-procedure Care
At the Hospital
After the procedure, the staff may:
- Give you pain medicines
- Protect the knee with a brace or splint
- Teach you how to walk with crutches
During your stay, staff will take steps to lower your chance of infection, such as:
- Washing their hands
- Wearing gloves or masks
- Keeping your wounds covered
You can also lower your chance of infection by:
- Washing your hands often and reminding visitors and staff to do the same
- Reminding staff to wear gloves or masks
- Not letting others touch your wounds
At Home
It will take a few weeks for the incisions to heal.
Physical activity will be limited during this time. You will need to ask for help
with daily activities and delay your return to work. Full recovery can take up to
a year.
Problems to Look Out For
Call the doctor if you are not getting better or you have:
- Signs of infection, such as fever and chills
- Redness, swelling, a lot of bleeding, or any discharge from incisions
- Pain that you cannot control with medicine
- Swelling, pain, or heat in your calves
- Nausea or vomiting
- Cough, shortness of breath, or chest pain
- Numbness in the knee
- New or worsening symptoms
If you think you have an emergency, call for medical help right away.