Does your knee feel unstable?
If your knee feels unstable, gives way while walking or becomes painful after a sports injury, an assessment can help identify the cause and guide the next steps.
Dr. Praful Kilaru
Yashoda Hospitals, Malakpet, Hyderabad
Monday to Saturday, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
+91 97019 97104
What Is ACL Reconstruction Surgery?
ACL reconstruction surgery is a procedure used to replace a damaged anterior cruciate ligament with a graft. The ACL is one of the main ligaments inside the knee that helps control its movement and stability.
The ACL links the thigh bone (femur) to the shin bone (tibia) inside the knee joint. It helps prevent excessive forward movement of the shin bone and supports rotational stability during activities such as running, jumping and changing direction.
When the ACL tears, some people experience knee instability, especially during sports or sudden turning movements. ACL reconstruction may be considered when the injury causes significant instability or when the patient's activity requirements make surgery appropriate.
What Are the Symptoms of an ACL Tear?
An ACL tear may lead to sudden knee pain, swelling and difficulty putting weight on the affected leg. Some people hear or feel a pop when the injury occurs, although this does not confirm an ACL tear by itself.
Common symptoms include:
Symptoms vary from person to person. Other injuries, including meniscus tears and damage to other ligaments, can cause similar problems. Our knee pain treatment page explains other common causes of knee pain.
Seek prompt medical assessment
If you experience a major knee injury, severe swelling, a visibly deformed knee, numbness or an inability to bear weight, seek prompt medical assessment.
What Causes an ACL Injury?
ACL injuries commonly occur when the knee twists or changes direction suddenly. They can happen during sports, exercise, falls or accidents.
Common causes include:
Football, basketball, badminton and other activities involving rapid turns or jumps can place stress on the ACL. You can read about other common problems on our sports injuries treatment page.
An ACL injury may occur on its own or alongside damage to the meniscus, cartilage or other knee ligaments, such as the MCL or PCL. Identifying all associated injuries is important when planning treatment.
What Are the Different Types of ACL Tears?
ACL injuries are generally described according to the extent of ligament damage.
Partial ACL Tear
Some ACL fibres are damaged while part of the ligament remains intact. Treatment is based on knee stability, symptom severity, associated injuries and the patient's activity level. Some partial tears may be treated with rehabilitation and activity adjustments. If the knee continues to feel unstable, further medical evaluation may be needed.
Complete ACL Tear
The ligament has torn through its full thickness, and the knee may feel weak or unstable, especially when changing direction or making sudden turns. A complete tear does not always require surgery; the decision depends on the patient's symptoms, functional instability, activity goals and associated injuries.
How Is an ACL Tear Diagnosed?
An ACL tear is assessed through a medical history, a physical examination and imaging when needed. These steps help the doctor understand the injury and check for damage to other knee structures.
Medical history
The doctor asks how the injury happened, whether the knee swelled, whether a popping sensation occurred and whether the knee has given way since the injury.
Physical examination
The examination may include checking knee movement, swelling and stability. Tests can help identify possible damage to the ACL or other ligaments. Pain and swelling can affect the examination, so reassessment may sometimes be needed.
X-ray
An X-ray helps assess the bones and may identify fractures or other bone-related problems. It does not directly show an ACL tear.
MRI scan
An MRI can help evaluate the ACL and other soft tissues inside the knee, including the meniscus and other ligaments. The doctor may recommend it when the findings could affect treatment decisions.
Not every patient needs the same investigations. The choice depends on the injury, examination findings and clinical requirements.
Does Every ACL Tear Require Surgery?
No. Some ACL tears can be managed without surgery, while others may benefit from reconstruction. The treatment choice depends on knee stability, the nature of the injury, activity requirements and any associated damage. Our article on whether an ACL tear can heal on its own explains this in more detail.
Non-surgical treatment may be considered for selected patients who have manageable symptoms, acceptable knee stability and activity needs that can be met without reconstruction.
ACL reconstruction may be considered when:
Age alone does not determine the need for surgery. The doctor also considers physical maturity, activity level, overall health and the nature of the injury.
An orthopedic consultation helps patients understand the potential benefits, limitations and risks of each option.
What Are the Treatment Options for an ACL Tear?
ACL injuries can be treated with non-surgical methods or surgery, depending on the severity of the injury and the patient's needs. The most suitable approach depends on the injury and the patient's functional needs.
Non-Surgical ACL Treatment
Non-surgical treatment may be appropriate for selected patients, particularly when the knee is sufficiently stable for their intended activities. Treatment may include:
Rehabilitation aims to improve strength, movement and control of the injured leg. However, physiotherapy cannot reliably restore the function of a completely torn ACL in every patient. Learn more about our approach to physiotherapy and rehabilitation.
If the knee continues to give way, further assessment may be necessary.
ACL Reconstruction Surgery
ACL reconstruction may be recommended when instability or activity limitations make surgery a suitable option.
During the procedure, the damaged ligament is replaced with a graft. The graft may come from the patient's own tissue or, in selected cases, donor tissue.
The surgeon considers the injury, activity goals, other knee damage and individual factors when discussing the procedure and graft options.
How Is ACL Reconstruction Surgery Performed?
ACL reconstruction is commonly performed using arthroscopic techniques. This involves inserting a small camera and surgical instruments through small incisions to work inside the knee joint. See how open and arthroscopic knee surgery compare.
The procedure generally involves the following steps:
Anaesthesia
The appropriate anaesthesia is administered for the procedure.
Knee examination
The surgeon assesses the ACL and checks for associated injuries.
Graft preparation
A suitable graft is prepared to replace the damaged ligament.
Graft placement
The surgeon positions the graft to restore the intended ligament function.
Graft fixation
The graft is secured in place using appropriate fixation methods.
Postoperative care
The patient receives instructions about wound care, movement, weight-bearing and rehabilitation.
The exact surgical technique depends on the injury, graft choice, associated damage and the surgeon's assessment.
What Are the Graft Options for ACL Reconstruction?
A graft is used to replace the damaged ACL. Common options include:
Patellar tendon graft
Tissue taken from the tendon connecting the kneecap to the shin bone.
Hamstring tendon graft
Tendon tissue taken from the hamstring muscles at the back of the thigh.
Quadriceps tendon graft
Tissue taken from the tendon above the kneecap.
Donor graft
Tissue obtained from a donor, used in selected situations.
Each graft option has potential advantages and limitations. The appropriate choice depends on factors such as age, activity goals, previous surgery, associated injuries and the surgeon's clinical judgement.
There is no single graft that is best for every patient.
What Are the Risks of ACL Reconstruction Surgery?
ACL reconstruction can help address knee instability in appropriately selected patients, but it also carries potential risks. These should be discussed with the surgeon before making a treatment decision.
Possible risks and complications include:
The likelihood of complications varies according to individual health, injury characteristics, surgical factors and rehabilitation. Following postoperative instructions and attending follow-up appointments are important parts of care.
Ask your surgeon about the risks that are most relevant to your condition.
What Is Recovery Like After ACL Reconstruction Surgery?
Recovery after ACL reconstruction takes place in stages. The timeline varies according to the surgical procedure, associated injuries, knee movement, strength and progress during rehabilitation.
Early Recovery
The initial phase focuses on managing swelling, restoring appropriate knee movement and activating the leg muscles. Walking support or a brace may be recommended depending on the procedure and the surgeon's instructions.
Patients should follow their individual guidance about weight-bearing, wound care and activity restrictions.
Strengthening and Rehabilitation
As recovery progresses, rehabilitation may focus on:
The programme should be adjusted according to progress and any additional injuries or procedures.
When Can You Return to Sports?
Returning to sports after ACL reconstruction is based on functional recovery, not just the number of months since surgery.
Many patients need several months of rehabilitation, and return to pivoting sports often takes around 9–12 months or longer. The timeline varies and should not be treated as a guaranteed recovery period. Our guide on when you can run after ACL surgery covers the early stages of returning to activity.
Before returning to sports, the treating team may assess knee stability, strength, movement control, functional tests and readiness for the demands of the activity.
Important
Returning too early may increase the risk of another injury. Follow the surgeon's and rehabilitation team's guidance.
What Factors Affect ACL Reconstruction Surgery Cost in Hyderabad?
The cost of ACL reconstruction surgery in Hyderabad varies according to the patient's condition, the procedure and the hospital arrangements. Factors that may affect the total cost include:
An accurate estimate should be obtained directly from the hospital after clinical assessment. Ask what is included in the estimate and whether rehabilitation and follow-up appointments are charged separately.
ACL Reconstruction Surgery in Malakpet, Hyderabad
Dr. Praful Kilaru provides orthopedic consultations at Yashoda Hospitals, Malakpet, Hyderabad, for knee injuries and ligament-related problems.
If you have a suspected ACL tear, ongoing knee instability or difficulty returning to your usual activities, an orthopedic assessment can help determine the nature of the injury and discuss suitable treatment options.
Bring your previous medical reports, MRI or X-ray images and details of any earlier treatment to your appointment, if available.
Consultation location: Yashoda Hospitals, Old Malakpet, Hyderabad
OPD timings listed on the website: Monday to Saturday, 9:00 AM–4:00 PM
Appointments: +91 97019 97104
Book an orthopedic consultation through the hospital's verified appointment channels to confirm availability and consultation details.
Frequently Asked Questions About ACL Reconstruction Surgery
Which doctor should I consult for ACL reconstruction surgery in Hyderabad?
An orthopedic surgeon who evaluates knee ligament injuries can assess an ACL tear and discuss surgical and non-surgical options. The appropriate treatment depends on the injury, knee stability and the patient's activity goals.
Can an ACL tear heal without surgery?
Some ACL injuries can be managed without surgery, particularly when the knee remains sufficiently stable for the patient's activities. However, a completely torn ACL may continue to cause instability in some people. Assessment helps determine the appropriate approach.
How do I know if I need ACL reconstruction surgery?
Surgery may be considered if the knee repeatedly gives way, activity is significantly limited or associated injuries require surgical treatment. The decision is based on examination findings, imaging when indicated, activity goals and the response to non-surgical treatment.
How long does ACL reconstruction recovery take?
Recovery progresses over several months and varies between patients. Returning to pivoting sports often takes around 9–12 months or longer, depending on strength, stability, functional testing and the treating team's advice.
Can I walk normally after ACL reconstruction?
Walking generally improves as recovery progresses, but the timing varies. Walking support, weight-bearing restrictions and exercises depend on the procedure and any associated injuries. Follow the instructions provided by your treating team.
Which graft is best for ACL reconstruction?
Patellar tendon, hamstring tendon and quadriceps tendon grafts are commonly used options. The most suitable graft depends on the patient's age, activity needs, injury, previous procedures and the surgeon's assessment.
Is ACL reconstruction performed through keyhole surgery?
ACL reconstruction is commonly performed arthroscopically using a camera and instruments inserted through small incisions. The exact technique depends on the injury and surgical plan.
What happens if an ACL tear is left untreated?
Some people can manage an ACL tear without surgery, but ongoing instability may make certain activities difficult and can contribute to further knee injuries. The appropriate treatment depends on symptoms, knee function and activity requirements.
Can a person return to sports after ACL reconstruction?
Many patients work towards returning to sports through structured rehabilitation. Return should depend on strength, stability, functional testing and clinical clearance rather than a fixed date.
Can teenagers undergo ACL reconstruction?
Treatment for teenagers requires careful assessment of growth and physical maturity, as well as the injury and activity goals. The treatment plan should account for growth-related considerations and be discussed with an appropriately qualified specialist. See also our page on pediatric orthopedics.
Does ACL reconstruction also repair a meniscus tear?
A meniscus tear may be treated during the same operation when clinically appropriate. Whether it requires repair or another treatment depends on the type, location and extent of the tear. Read more about meniscal tear treatment.
What is the cost of ACL reconstruction surgery in Hyderabad?
The cost depends on the hospital, graft choice, implants, associated injuries, hospital stay and rehabilitation requirements. Contact the hospital for an estimate based on your clinical assessment and the proposed procedure.
Medical disclaimer: This page provides general educational information and does not replace an individual medical assessment. ACL treatment, surgical decisions and rehabilitation plans should be determined by a qualified healthcare professional based on the patient's condition and needs.
