Knee Surgery.
Knee Reconstruction
The anterior cruciate ligament is one of the major ligaments stabilising your knee but is also one of the most common ligaments to be injured, often when tackled or landing awkwardly from a jump position.
A “popping” sensation is often felt, along with sudden swelling. The pain may settle quickly, followed by the swelling, but the knee can remain unstable when activities are resumed. The sensation of the knee giving way is often experienced, and the risk of further injury is high.
Knee reconstruction may be suggested if the knee remains unstable. This involves replacement of the torn knee ligament with a “new” one. This typically comes from a couple of hamstring tendons, or the middle third of the patella tendon. Other grafts are available if required.
The operation can be performed arthroscopically which allows the rest of the knee to be examined at the same time, and any other knee problems identified. Meniscal tears may be repaired or resected, loose bodies may be removed, or cartilage damage may be treated.