ACL Reconstruction (Autograft)

Learn more about ACL reconstruction surgery at King Edward VII’s Hospital

We know if you’ve torn your anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) it can be a painful experience.  Here you can find out more about our London ACL reconstruction specialists and find out if this treatment is the right option for you. On this page King Edward VII’s Hospital London ACL reconstruction consultants answer your questions about the procedure.

Why would I need autograft anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction surgery?

Most patients requiring autograft anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction surgery need it because they’ve torn their anterior cruciate ligament, or ACL. The ACL is an important ligament that provides stability to the knee and connects the thigh bone to the shin bone.

The most common way to cause this kind of damage is by playing sports such as football, rugby or tennis or by taking part in activities such as skiing.

Autograft anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction surgery uses a strip of tissue taken from elsewhere in your leg such as below your knee or your hamstring to strengthen the torn ACL.

What symptoms does autograft anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction surgery address?

Autograft anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction surgery helps to relieve the pain associated with a torn ACL and restore stability and freedom of movement to the knee. This will allow you to perform everyday tasks more easily and get back to sports and other activities.

When should you speak to your ACL reconstruction specialist about autograft anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction surgery?

If you’ve landed awkwardly on your knee or twisted it and you’ve experienced immediate pain and you find that your knee is unstable and it’s difficult to move, speak to your GP or ACL reconstruction specialist. They may perform some tests and scans and may refer you for autograft anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction surgery.

How is autograft anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction surgery performed?

Autograft anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction surgery is performed under a general anaesthetic meaning that you’ll be asleep throughout. It normally takes between an hour and an hour and a half and is usually carried out as keyhole surgery.

Your ACL reconstruction consultant surgeon will take a piece of tendon from the pre-agreed area of your leg. They will make a few small cuts to the outside of your knee to pass long, thin instruments to the inside of your knee.

They will then use these instruments to remove the damaged tissue and repair your ACL using the new tendon. This new tendon, called a graft, will be held into place using permanent medical screws or staples.

Your wounds will then be stitched or clipped together and a dressing applied.

What is the recovery like for autograft anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction surgery?

Your recovery from autograft anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction surgery will depend on multiple factors, including your age, fitness level and the nature of your procedure.

Most patients require a night in hospital following autograft anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction surgery. Your nursing team will give you full instructions on how best to recover including if you need to use crutches and for how long.

It can be normal for it to take up to six months to recover from autograft anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction surgery and up to a year before you’re able to play sports again.

Your physiotherapy team will provide you with rehabilitation exercises to help with your recovery.

Are there any risks/complications associated with autograft anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction surgery?

As with any medical procedure, it’s possible for risks or complications to arise. Speaking with your specialist or surgeon beforehand will help you avoid any adverse reactions.

Autograft anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction surgery has a relatively low risk of serious complications, but the following risks and complications can occur in a small number of cases:

• Swelling
• Bleeding
• Infection
• Blood clot
• Knee pain and stiffness
• Knee weakness and instability
• Failure of the graft

How can I prepare for autograft anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction surgery?

Prior to autograft anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction surgery, your surgeon will discuss with you how best to prepare, as each patient is different with differing needs.

Common preparations for autograft anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction surgery include:

• Routine blood tests, x rays or scans as requested by your surgeon
• Taking steps to stop smoking if you smoke
• Losing weight if you’re overweight
• Remaining active and doing regular exercise

Are there alternatives for autograft anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction surgery?

If you don’t plan to live an active lifestyle or playing sports is no longer important to you, then you may decide to manage your ACL damage and knee pain with rest and painkillers.