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Knee

ACL Revision

What are some of the considerations for a revision (redo) ACL reconstruction?

A revision ACL reconstruction procedure is usually indicated for patients who continue to have clinical instability of the knee, significant knee pain, or difficulty with range of motion of the knee after having had a prior ACL reconstruction. Another indication for a revision ACL reconstruction is re-rupture of the ACL which is more commonly seen in active younger patients. Many patients who have a re-rupture can be treated without surgery, but discussion must include patient goals for the level of activity they would like to return to. A thorough physical exam in our sports medicine clinic will be performed to examine the stability of the knee and the function of the ACL. This helps to determine whether reconstruction is worthwhile and guides the type of graft to use in the reconstruction. Additional radiographic imaging is needed to evaluate the previous ACL reconstruction graft and tunnels from the previous operation.

ACL revision reconstruction can be performed as either a one or two stage procedure according to the preoperative examinations. If it is determined that a previous tunnel is not in the right orientation or there is tunnel enlargement which may interfere with the new tunnel during revision surgery, a two-stage procedure can be considered. The tunnels will be filled with a bone graft during the first stage procedure and a reconstruction will be performed during the second stage.

Patients should expect to be in a hinged knee brace with the knee completely extended for about 4-6 weeks after surgery during walking. Patients should also expect a delayed return to high intensity activity at around 9-12 months following the revision surgery to ensure adequate healing time.

Dr. Jorge Chahla is an award-winning scientist and world renowned orthopedic surgeon who trained under the most accomplished surgeons in the world. Dr. Chahla is located in Chicago, Illinois and offers cutting-edge procedures and treatment to help patients return to the lives they love after suffering complex injuries to the hip, knee, and shoulder. Contact Dr. Chahla to schedule a consultation to receive the correct diagnosis and treatment. You will always receive personalized compassionate care.

 

At a Glance

Dr. Jorge Chahla

  • Triple fellowship-trained sports medicine surgeon
  • Performs over 500 surgeries per year
  • Assistant professor of orthopedic surgery at Rush University
  • Learn more

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