ACL Reconstruction Specialist

What is anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction?

ACL reconstruction is a type of orthopedic surgery that involves Dr. Tadje removing your torn ligament and replacing it with a piece of tendon from another part of your body. Dr. Tadje might also recommend using healthy tissue from a deceased donor.

ACL reconstruction at Tadje Orthopaedics is an arthroscopic procedure. Arthroscopic surgeries use smaller incisions and boast quicker recovery times compared to traditional open surgeries. 

Who can benefit from ACL reconstruction?

Whenever possible, Dr. Tadje recommends conservative measures of care to relieve pain and discomfort caused by ACL tears. However, if you’re an athlete and want to continue playing the sport you love, surgery may be necessary. This is particularly true if the sport you play involves jumping, running, or pivoting. 

Dr. Tadje might also recommend ACL reconstruction if your injury causes your knee to buckle during regular activities or if you’ve injured your meniscus or other ligaments in your knee. Following a physical exam, review of your medical history, and discussion of your symptoms, Dr. Tadje develops a treatment plan that aligns with your individual needs.  

How do I prepare for ACL reconstruction?

Before your ACL reconstruction surgery, Dr. Tadje asks you to participate in several weeks of physical therapy. Regular exercise helps to reduce pain and swelling. If you undergo surgery with a stiff knee, you may not regain full range of motion.

At your initial consultation, you should also let Dr. Tadje know about any prescription medications, vitamins, or supplements you’re taking. This is especially true if you take aspirin or other medications that thin your blood. Make sure to follow Dr. Tadje’s instructions on when you should stop eating, drinking, or taking medications in the days leading up to your surgery.

What happens during ACL reconstruction?

Dr. Tadje performs ACL reconstruction as an outpatient procedure. On the day of your operation, he administers general anesthesia, which puts you to sleep. After you’re asleep, Dr. Tadje makes a small incision in your knee and carefully removes your damaged ligament. Next, he takes a segment of the tendon from another part of your body and grafts it to your surrounding bone with screws. The tissue graft serves as a foundation, allowing new ligament tissue to grow. 

Dr. Tadje carefully stitches up your incisions and moves you to a recovery room. Once you wake up, he sends you home with a list of recovery instructions. He might also recommend platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatment a week or two after your surgery to promote your body’s natural healing processes. 

To learn more about ACL reconstruction, call the office or use the online booking tool to request your appointment today.