The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is located in the center of the knee. It is a band of tissue that connects the femur to the tibia and helps to stabilize it. The ACL can tear when the knee gets forcefully hit or twists, or due to a bad landing. It is a very common injury among athletes who play basketball and football, as well as skiers. It is also common among military personnel and those who work in construction.
The decision to get surgical treatment is not easy to make. The average patient thinks of several factors, including having to take time off work or ceasing playing their sport, as well as challenges in recovery and the risk of complications. No surgery is without risks, however, in this blog, we will discuss the many benefits of ACL surgery.
Restoration of Knee Function
ACL tears considerably inhibit the functionality of the knee. ACL repair surgery is the best way to effectively restore knee stability and function, because it addresses the root cause of the problem. It permanently repairs the torn ACL, restoring stability to the knee and allowing you to return to normal activities.
Permanent Symptom Relief
ACL tears cause a host of symptoms, such as moderate to severe pain, instability, lack of functionality, swelling, and weakness. While non-surgical treatments can reduce these symptoms, the torn ACL will not be healed through them. Thus, complete symptom relief is likely impossible in most cases.
ACL repair surgery permanently eliminates pain, swelling, and limitations in the affected knee joint, because it actually corrects the underlying cause. As such, this procedure is likely your only way to achieve permanent relief.
Prevention of Further Damage
ACL repair surgery helps prevent damage to the cartilage and surrounding knee structures, which will otherwise take on more pressure since the ACL can no longer do its job, by repairing the torn ligament in question. ACL repair surgery stabilizes the knee and prevents strain and possible injury to the rest of the knee structures.
Use of Minimally Invasive Techniques
ACL surgery can be performed through a minimally invasive techniques with the use of an arthroscope, which allows the surgeon to visualize the inner structures of the knee and minimize disturbance to the surrounding healthy tissues. One of the biggest benefits of arthroscopic ACL surgery is that it allows the patient to return home on the same day as the surgery. It also results in less scarring, pain, and risk of infection. Patients also enjoy a shorter recovery period.
ACL Surgery in Bismarck, North Dakota
The Bone & Joint Center is the largest private orthopedic practice in North Dakota, with three orthopedic surgeons – Dr. Timothy Bopp, Dr. Brian Dahl, and Dr. Joe Carlson – highly experienced in performing highly advanced ligament reconstruction techniques on the knee. We also have specialists on our team who can be part of your care team for physical and occupational therapy services. At The Bone & Joint Center, we make sure you receive comprehensive orthopedic care.
If you have any questions about our services, call (800) 424-2663. To schedule an appointment with one of our knee surgeons, call our office today at (701) 946-7400 or (866) 900-8650, or you can use our convenient online request form.
