ACL Reconstruction

Why is ACL reconstruction being recommended for me?

Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) reconstruction is usually indicated for many reasons. In the pediatric population, a complete tear of the ACL results in significant instability of the knee. In kids specifically, their high degree of activity makes it difficult and unrealistic to limit their activities both in athletics and in normal daily life. In patients over the age of 40 who are physically active there may be substantial benefit in reconstructing the ACL in order to return to activities such as skiing, skating, basketball, or any other activity with large amounts of side-to-side movement.

You will need to have complete (full) knee range of motion after the injury and before undergoing an ACL reconstruction surgical procedure. Improved motion prior to surgery substantially decreases the risk of post-operative scar tissue, which can lead to stiffness and worsen the long-term outcome. Dr. Chahla will most likely prescribe both home exercises and prehabilitation working with a physical therapist prior to surgery to improve your range of motion and prepare you for surgery.

During the surgical procedure, Dr. Chahla will make 2 small incisions around the knee for placement of the arthroscope cameras and instrumentation. This is known as a minimally invasive arthroscopic ACL reconstruction. The remaining torn ACL is cleaned out and a small tunnel is made in the femur (thigh bone) followed by placement of a small tunnel in the tibia (shin bone) which requires an additional incision that is 2-3 cm long. The new ACL graft is then placed at the correct angle and secured in place with screws at either end of the graft in the thigh and shin bones. When an autograft is considered, a longer incision must be made in order to harvest the graft.

Dr. Chahla is part of Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush, a nationally recognized orthopedic group. Dr. Chahla is renowned in his own right as one the nation’s leading knee surgeons specializing in sports medicine. During your consultation, Dr. Chahla can diagnose and discuss the appropriate treatment options for you.

When you are in need of an orthopedic knee surgeon in Chicago, schedule a consultation with Dr. Jorge Chahla. Dr. Chahla has orthopedic clinics in Chicago, Naperville, Oak Brook, and Munster Indiana.