ACL Reconstruction

ACL reconstruction rebuilds a torn anterior cruciate ligament, one of the main stabilizing ligaments of the knee. The torn ligament is replaced with a graft of tendon taken from your own body or from a donor. ACL tears are common in sports that involve cutting, pivoting, and jumping, which makes this one of the most frequently performed sports medicine surgeries.

What to expect

  • Typically performed arthroscopically under general anesthesia, often with a nerve block for pain control.
  • Surgery usually takes about one to two hours and is almost always outpatient.
  • Crutches and often a brace are used for the first days to weeks; physical therapy starts within the first week.
  • Walking without crutches typically returns within a few weeks; jogging often begins around three to four months if rehab is on track.
  • Return to cutting and pivoting sports commonly takes nine to twelve months, depending on the sport and your surgeon's protocol.

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Common questions

How long is recovery after ACL reconstruction?
Most people walk without crutches within a few weeks and resume desk work within one to two weeks. Return to competitive sports commonly takes nine to twelve months, guided by strength and stability testing.
Which graft type is best?
Common options include patellar tendon, hamstring, and quadriceps tendon grafts from your own body, or donor tissue. Each has trade-offs, and the right choice depends on your age, sport, and goals, your surgeon will walk you through them.
Does a torn ACL always need surgery?
No. Some people with lower-demand lifestyles do well with physical therapy alone. Surgery is typically recommended for active people who want to return to pivoting sports or who have ongoing instability.

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Related conditions

Torn ACL

This page provides general information only and is not medical advice. Consult a qualified physician about your specific situation. Listings are not endorsements.