Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction is an arthroscopic surgery performed to remedy a torn ACL through the use of a tendon graft. Recovery from this procedure can take anywhere between four to nine months, depending on a number of factors. During your consultation, your surgeon will give you a complete overview of your surgery, including your expected recovery time. Southern California Hip Institute (SCHI), led by board certified orthopedic surgeon Dr. Tigran Garabekyan, provides ACL reconstruction surgery to patients in Los Angeles, Century City, Beverly Hills, CA, and surrounding locations.
ACL Reconstruction Procedure
During an ACL reconstruction, the surgery is conducted using a small incision and arthroscopic technology. Once the torn ACL is removed from the middle of the knee, tunnels are made in the femur and tibia to insert a tendon graft that will work as the new ACL. The tendon graft is connected to the tunnels with absorbable screws and a tiny titanium button tied together with sutures.
Where Does the Tendon Graft Come From?
Depending on your age and condition, the tendon graft may be harvested from your hamstring or from a tissue bank. Harvesting the tendon from your own body is ideal since it is already compatible with the body’s biology and there is no need for sterilization. It is recommended that patients younger than 25 years old opt for this to prolong the life of the tendon graft. Patients over 25 years old may choose to be their own donor, or opt for a tissue bank.
Recovery Timeline
Your recovery speed largely depends on many factors, including your health, age, and the extent of your injury. Most patients can expect to go home on the day of surgery and resume light household activities within 1 – 2 days. You will need to take prescription pain medications for about 1 – 2 weeks. You may resume driving in about a week and return to a desk job in 3 – 4 weeks. Around the 4 – 6 month mark, you should be able to walk unassisted and resume labor-intensive jobs and sports activities.
Southern California Hip Institute (SCHI), led by board certified orthopedic surgeon Dr. Tigran Garabekyan, provides ACL reconstruction surgery to patients in Los Angeles, Century City, Beverly Hills, CA, and surrounding locations.
Contact the Southern California Hip Institute
Dr. Tigran Garabekyan is a board certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in hip preservation. To learn more about Southern California Hip Institute or to schedule a consultation, click here to contact us or call:
Century City / Los Angeles: 310.595.1030
Serving patients in Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Century City, West Hollywood, North Hollywood Encino, Sherman Oaks, Van Nuys, Burbank, Glendale and other neighboring cities in the greater Los Angeles, California area.
Also visit http://www.drgorthopedics.com/
