The arthroscopic ACL primary repair procedure is required when an individual has a torn Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL). The ACL is one of the major ligaments in the knee joint and plays an important role in stabilizing the knee during physical activities such as running, jumping, and pivoting.
A torn ACL can occur as a result of a sports injury, a fall, or a sudden twist or hyperextension of the knee. Symptoms of a torn ACL include pain, swelling, instability, and difficulty bearing weight on the affected leg.
While traditional treatment for a torn ACL involves reconstruction surgery, which involves using a graft to replace the damaged ligament, the arthroscopic ACL primary repair procedure may be a viable option for select patients with specific types of ACL tears. It is important to note that not all patients with a torn ACL are candidates for this procedure, and a thorough evaluation by a qualified orthopedic surgeon is necessary to determine the most appropriate treatment plan.
In general, arthroscopic ACL primary repair in Chennai may be recommended for patients with mid-substance tears or avulsion fractures, which occur when the ligament pulls away from the bone. The procedure may also be recommended for patients who have a high risk of developing complications from traditional ACL reconstruction surgery, such as infection or graft failure.
Overall, the decision to undergo the arthroscopic ACL primary repair procedure is based on several factors, including the extent and location of the tear, the patient’s age, activity level, and the presence of underlying medical conditions.
Pre-Op of Arthroscopic ACL Primary Repair in Chennai
Preparing for arthroscopic ACL primary repair surgery involves several steps to ensure the best possible outcome. These are the general pre-operative guidelines that have to be followed:
Medical Evaluation: You will need to undergo a medical evaluation before surgery to ensure that you are healthy enough for the procedure. This may include blood tests, imaging tests, and a physical examination.
Medication Management: Your doctor may recommend that you stop taking certain medications or supplements before surgery to reduce the risk of bleeding or other complications.
Lifestyle Modifications: Your doctor may recommend lifestyle modifications such as quitting smoking, losing weight, or increasing physical activity to improve your overall health and reduce the risk of complications during and after arthroscopic ACL primary repair in Chennai.
Pre-Operative Physical Therapy: Your doctor may recommend that you undergo pre-operative physical therapy to improve your range of motion, build strength, and prepare the knee for surgery.
Home Modifications: Before surgery, you may need to make modifications to your home to make it more accessible during recovery. This may include installing grab bars in the bathroom, removing obstacles in your living space, and arranging for a caregiver if necessary.
Planning for Transportation: You will need someone to drive you home after surgery, and you may need assistance getting around for several days after the procedure.
Preparing for Post-Operative Recovery: You may need to purchase equipment such as crutches or a knee brace and arrange for assistance with daily activities such as cooking and cleaning during the post-operative recovery period.
It is important to follow all pre-operative instructions from your doctor or surgical team to ensure the best possible outcome from your arthroscopic ACL primary repair surgery.
The arthroscopic ACL primary repair in Chennai is a minimally invasive surgery that involves reattaching the torn ACL back to the bone using small incisions and specialized tools. Here is a general overview of the procedure:
Anesthesia: You will be given general anesthesia or regional anesthesia to ensure that you are comfortable and pain-free during the procedure.
Incisions: The surgeon will make several small incisions around the knee joint to insert specialized tools and a camera (arthroscope).
Arthroscopic Evaluation: The surgeon will use the arthroscope to evaluate the extent of the tear and determine if the patient is a good candidate for primary ACL repair.
ACL Repair: If the patient is a good candidate for primary ACL repair, the surgeon will use specialized tools to reattach the torn ACL back to the bone using small sutures or anchors.
Closure: Once the ACL is reattached, the incisions are closed with sutures or steri-strips.
The entire procedure typically takes about 1-2 hours, and most patients are able to go home the same day.
After surgery, you will need to follow a strict rehabilitation program to restore your range of motion, build strength and flexibility, and improve balance and coordination. This will involve physical therapy and regular follow-up appointments with your doctor to monitor your progress and ensure the best possible outcome from the procedure.
It is important to note that the arthroscopic ACL primary repair in Chennai is not appropriate for all patients with a torn ACL, and a thorough evaluation by a qualified orthopedic surgeon is necessary to determine the most appropriate treatment plan.
Post-Op of Arthroscopic ACL Primary Repair
Recovering from arthroscopic ACL primary repair surgery requires a combination of rest, physical therapy, and careful attention to the surgical site to promote healing and prevent complications. These are the general post-operative guidelines that have to be followed:
Pain Management: Your doctor will prescribe pain medication to manage pain and discomfort after surgery. Be sure to take your medication as directed and report any side effects or concerns to your doctor.
Rest and Immobilization: You will need to rest the affected leg and avoid weight-bearing activities for the first few weeks after surgery. You may need to wear a knee brace or use crutches to support the knee joint during this time.
Physical Therapy: Physical therapy is an essential component of post-operative recovery for arthroscopic ACL primary repair in Chennai. Your therapist will guide you through exercises to improve your range of motion, build strength and flexibility, and promote healing of the surgical site.
Wound Care: You will need to keep the surgical site clean and dry to prevent infection. Your doctor will provide instructions on how to care for the incisions and when to remove any dressings.
Follow-Up Appointments: You will need to attend regular follow-up appointments with your doctor to monitor your progress and ensure that the knee joint is healing properly. Your doctor may also order imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI to evaluate the healing process.
Lifestyle Modifications: You may need to make modifications to your daily routine to promote healing and avoid aggravating the surgical site. This may include modifying your diet, avoiding high-impact activities, and taking time off work or school.
It is important to follow all post-operative instructions from your doctor or surgical team to ensure the best possible outcome from your arthroscopic ACL primary repair surgery. With proper care and rehabilitation, most patients are able to return to normal activities within 6-9 months after surgery.
Rehabilitation is a crucial part of recovering from arthroscopic ACL primary repair surgery. Following a structured physical therapy program can help restore range of motion, build strength and flexibility, and improve balance and coordination. Here are some general guidelines for rehabilitation after arthroscopic ACL primary repair surgery:
Early Mobilization: Your physical therapist will encourage you to begin gentle range of motion exercises as soon as possible after arthroscopic ACL primary repair in Chennai to prevent stiffness and improve circulation.
Strengthening Exercises: As your knee begins to heal, your physical therapist will introduce strengthening exercises to build muscle around the knee joint and support the ACL. These may include exercises for the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calf muscles.
Balance and Coordination Exercises: Your physical therapist will also work with you on balance and coordination exercises to help you regain stability and prevent future injuries.
Sports-Specific Training: If you participate in sports or other high-impact activities, your physical therapist will work with you to develop a customized training program to help you safely return to these activities.
Gradual Return to Activity: It is important to return to activities gradually and under the guidance of your doctor or physical therapist. This will help prevent re-injury and promote long-term recovery.
Pain Management: Your physical therapist may use various modalities such as ice or heat therapy, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation to help manage pain and inflammation during rehabilitation.
Compliance: It is important to attend all physical therapy sessions and follow your therapist’s instructions to ensure the best possible outcome from surgery. Be sure to report any concerns or setbacks to your therapist or doctor.
Rehabilitation after arthroscopic ACL primary repair in Chennai typically takes about 6-9 months, depending on the extent of the injury and individual factors such as age and overall health. With dedication and patience, most patients are able to return to normal activities and sports after rehabilitation.
