Knee Ligament (ACL) Reconstruction in Melbourne
ACL reconstruction is a specialised surgical procedure used to restore stability to a knee after a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). The ACL is one of the major ligaments inside the knee and plays an important role in controlling forward movement and rotational stability of the joint. When it is torn, the knee can feel unstable, give way during activity, and become more vulnerable to further injury. For patients in Frankston and the Mornington Peninsula, ACL reconstruction at Principle Orthopaedics is designed to replace the torn ligament with a tendon graft, helping you return to your daily routine and sporting activities with a stable, trustworthy knee.
What is the ACL?
The anterior cruciate ligament, or ACL, is a strong band of tissue that connects the femur (thigh bone) to the tibia (shin bone) inside the knee. It works with the other ligaments, cartilage, and muscles around the knee to provide stability during twisting, pivoting, landing, and change-of-direction movements. The ACL is especially important in sports and activities that involve cutting, jumping, sudden deceleration, or rapid directional change.
How ACL injuries occur
ACL tears commonly occur during sport, but they can also happen during everyday activities, falls, or work-related injuries. Many ACL injuries are non-contact injuries caused by sudden pivoting, awkward landing, or abrupt change in direction. Others occur through direct trauma to the knee. Patients often report hearing or feeling a pop, followed by swelling, pain, and difficulty continuing their activity.
Symptoms of an ACL tear
Common symptoms of a torn ACL include swelling, knee pain, a feeling that the knee is unstable, and difficulty with walking or twisting movements. Some patients describe the knee as giving way, shifting unexpectedly, or not feeling trustworthy during sport or even normal daily activities. After the initial injury, the knee may gradually settle, but instability can persist and make returning to higher-level activity difficult.
When is ACL reconstruction considered?
Not every ACL tear requires surgery. Some patients can manage well with rehabilitation, activity modification, and strengthening if their knee remains stable and their lifestyle does not involve pivoting demands. ACL reconstruction is more commonly considered by our orthopaedic specialists in patients with ongoing instability, associated meniscal or cartilage injury, recurrent giving way, or a strong desire to return to pivoting sports, physically demanding work, or higher-level athletic activity.
Why reconstruction is performed
The ACL usually cannot simply be stitched back together in a reliable way, so reconstruction is performed by replacing the torn ligament with a graft. The aim is to restore knee stability, improve confidence in movement, reduce episodes of giving way, and help protect the menisci and cartilage from further damage caused by recurrent instability. A stable knee is especially important for patients who wish to return to sports involving twisting, pivoting, jumping, or sudden directional change.
Graft options
ACL reconstruction is performed using a tendon graft. Common graft choices include a hamstring tendon graft, patellar tendon graft, quadriceps tendon graft, or in some situations, donor tissue known as allograft. The most suitable graft depends on factors such as age, activity level, sporting demands, previous surgery, anatomy, and surgeon preference. Your surgeon at Principle Orthopaedics will discuss the advantages and considerations of each option as they relate to your specific situation.
How ACL reconstruction is performed
ACL reconstruction is typically performed arthroscopically, using minimally invasive keyhole surgery. Your orthopaedic surgeon will make small incisions around the knee to clear away the damaged ligament. The chosen tendon graft is then prepared and passed through small tunnels drilled into the femur and tibia. The graft is securely fixed in place using specialized screws or buttons to create a new, stable ACL. Because the procedure is performed arthroscopically, patients generally experience less pain, smaller scars, and a faster initial recovery compared to traditional open surgery.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation is a crucial component of a successful ACL reconstruction. Following surgery, you will work closely with a physiotherapist to regain your range of motion, build strength, and restore balance. Full recovery and clearance to return to pivoting sports typically takes between 9 to 12 months, depending on your individual progress. Our team provides a tailored recovery plan to ensure you achieve the best possible long-term outcome.
Why Choose Principle Orthopaedics in Frankston?
Located conveniently at Peninsula Private Hospital, Principle Orthopaedics is dedicated to providing expert, patient-centered care for hip, knee, and shoulder conditions. Our highly experienced orthopaedic surgeons understand the impact a knee injury can have on your active lifestyle. We offer comprehensive evaluations and personalized surgical treatment plans for patients across Frankston, the Mornington Peninsula, and surrounding Melbourne suburbs.
Book a Consultation Today
If you are experiencing knee instability or suspect an ACL tear, prompt evaluation is key. Contact Principle Orthopaedics today at (03) 9789 7584 to schedule a consultation, or visit our clinic at Suite 3, Peninsula Private Hospital, 525 McClelland Dr, Frankston.
