Tears to the knee’s anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) are among the most common orthopedic injuries. If you have symptoms of an ACL tear, it is important to see a skilled surgeon for diagnosis and treatment. Below, we will take a look at the basics of ACL treatment, as well as where you can find the best orthopedic surgeon in Fountain Valley.
About ACL Tears
The knee is composed of four ligaments, all of which contribute to knee stability: the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), lateral collateral ligament (LCL), and medial collateral ligament (MCL). The ACL is the most frequently torn ligament, especially among certain athletes.
The ACL usually tears after sudden twisting of the knee, as can happen during a fall or in sports that require high-speed, frequent turns, like basketball and football. The ACL can also be torn during an accident or collision. ACL tears vary in severity from stretching of the ligament, to a partial tear, to a complete tear of the ligament.
ACL Treatment
Treatment depends on how severe the tear is, and on how active and healthy the patient is. Mild tears can often be treated with non-surgical methods such as rest and medication. Moderate to severe tears frequently require surgery, especially if the patient is young and physically active. In most cases, it takes several months, or as long as a year, for a moderate-to-severe tear to fully heal.
ACL surgery can usually be performed arthroscopically. During arthroscopic surgery, the doctor makes several small incisions around the knee, and inserts tools and a camera through those incisions. Thus the doctor is able to repair the knee without opening it up. Since this procedure is minimally invasive, it can be performed in an outpatient setting, and no general anesthesia is required.
Choosing a Surgeon
The quality of your orthopedic surgeon can make a big difference in how your treatment proceeds. Some key factors to ask as you search for an orthopedic surgeon in Fountain Valley include:
- Is the surgeon a board-certified orthopedist?
- Does the surgeon have expertise in sports medicine?
- How many years of experience does the surgeon have?
- Is the doctor dedicated to offering minimally invasive procedures?
- Does the doctor have good bedside manner?
- Do reviews from past patients tend to be positive?
Dr. Howard Marans is the top orthopedic surgeon in Fountain Valley. Dr. Marans is a board-certified orthopedist who has worked in the field for several decades. He is an expert in sports medicine, and has treated Olympic athletes in the past. Dr. Marans keeps abreast of the latest advances in the field, and offers cutting-edge, minimally invasive procedures whenever possible. Dr. Marans’ patients appreciate his combination of bedside manner, clinical judgment, and technical skill.
Dr. Marans would be happy to meet with you about your ACL tear. To schedule a consultation today, please click below and enter your information or call OC Orthopedic at (714) 979-8981.