Anterior Cruciate Ligament

(ACL) Reconstruction

Aim of Surgery

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To make a new Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) that will stop:

– The knee giving way
– The knee being damaged further

Usually some of the Hamstring Tendons (from the muscles at the back of your thigh) are used to make the new Ligament. These tendons then re-grow.

Before Surgery

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Pre-Operative Assessment of fitness for surgery:
– This is not normally required unless there are specific problems with your general health

Contraceptive Pill (OCP):
– It is up to you
– If you wish to stop this for 6 weeks before your surgery and use a different form of contraception that is acceptable
– If you do not wish to stop using the OCP then please tell us when you come in for your surgery and we will give you an injection while you are asleep to help prevent you getting a blood clot in your leg

In Hospital

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Scratches / Cuts
– If you have any scratches, cuts or the like on your leg when you are admitted for surgery then your operation may be postponed if Mr Lavender believes that these will pose a risk to you getting an infection at the time of your surgery

Consent
– Mr Lavender will come and see you when you arrive. He will get you to sign a form (Consent Form) agreeing to the operation and explain the risks of the surgery

Discharge
– You will normally stay in hospital overnight
– You can walk with all your weight on the operated leg as soon as the anaesthetic wears off
– You may need a pair of crutches for the first few days after the operation

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Rehabilitation

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Physiotherapy
– There will be a lot of this after your operation
– You may need a pair of crutches for the first few days after the operation

Stitches
– Mr Lavender usually uses clips. These do not hurt when being removed. They are usually removed after 7 days when you come to see Mr Lavender in the out patients department

Driving
– You are unable to drive for at least:
– Left leg (6 weeks)
– Right leg (6 weeks)

Work
– This depends upon the type of work you do and should be discussed with Mr Lavender. As a rough guide:
– Sedentary work (2 weeks)
– Light work (6 weeks)
– Heavy work (12 weeks)

Sick note
– Mr Lavender will provide you with a sick note if you require one

Kneeling
– This can be done when you feel comfortable

Flying
– You are not allowed to fly for 6 weeks following your surgery, due to the risk of blood clots in your legs

Sport
– This depends upon the type of work you do and should be discussed with Mr Lavender. As a rough guide:
– 3 months – Sport specific training started
– 6 months – Non-contact sports allowed
– 9 months – Contact sports allowed

Follow up

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Mr Lavender will normally see you at:
– 2 weeks – Remove clips and brace
– 6 weeks – Ensure your knee goes straight
– 12 weeks – X-Ray and discharge

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Expectations

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For a condensed version of this page, click on the PDF below.

Acl Reconstruction Expectations

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Spire Hospital

170 Barlow Moor Road

Manchester

M20 2AF

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