What Are My Options For Surgery If I Tore My ACL
ACL tears are one of the most common orthopedic injuries; athletes are especially prone to this type of ligament tear. If the ACL is torn, surgery is often necessary. Arthroscopic surgery can be used for almost all ACL tears. Below, we will take a look at some torn ACL surgery options, as well as non-surgical treatments. 
Understanding ACL Tears
The knee contains four ligaments, which work together to hold the knee in place. Because the knee has a narrow range of motion, twisting of the knee can place strain on these ligaments, which may result in a tear to the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) or to one of the other ligaments. Trauma can also tear the ACL.
ACL tears are common among athletes whose sport requires sudden stops or turns, such as basketball and football. This injury is also more common among people who are middle aged or older, because orthopedic injuries in general become more common at that time.
Non-Surgical Treatment
For minor tears, it may not even be necessary to review torn ACL surgery options. Even for moderate to severe tears, non-surgical treatments usually accompany the surgical treatment of a tear. Some common non-surgical treatments include:
- RICE – Rest, ice, elevation, and compression.
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Steroid injections
- Physical therapy
Torn ACL Surgery Options
ACL tears are most commonly treated with arthroscopic surgery. During this procedure, the doctor makes several small incisions near the knee. Through one incision, a camera is inserted, which allows the doctor to view the inside of the knee. Through the other incisions, the doctor inserts tools.
The goal of surgery is to repair the ligament. To accomplish this, it is sometimes necessary to take a small amount of another ligament or tendon from another location, usually another part of the knee.
Recovery from ACL Surgery 
Because most torn ACL surgery options are minimally invasive, the recovery from ACL surgery should not be particularly grueling. Patients do not undergo general anesthesia, and can return home the same day that surgery is performed. Most patients are away from work and other normal activities for a week, but can return to those activities within a week or less.
On the other hand, it takes longer to make a full recovery and return optimal functioning to the knee – several months in many cases. Because of this, tearing the ACL usually represents an end to the season for athletes. It is important to follow your doctor’s recommendations on how much and how little activity to engage in during the recovery period.
If you have a knee injury, Dr. Howard Marans would be happy to meet with you about your diagnosis and treatment. To schedule your consultation today, please click below and enter your information or call OC Orthopedic at (714) 979-8981.
