ACL & PCL INJURIES AND RECONSTRUCTION SURGERY
The knee is one of the most complex and hardworking joints in the human body. It allows us to walk, run, jump, turn, and pivot with ease. Two major ligaments — the Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) and the Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) — play a vital role in maintaining knee stability. When these ligaments are injured, knee function and mobility can be severely affected.
At the Best Orthopaedic Hospital in Agra, advanced diagnostic and surgical techniques are used to treat ACL and PCL injuries effectively and restore knee stability.
UNDERSTANDING ACL AND PCL INJURIES
Think of the knee joint like a bridge supported by strong cables. The ACL and PCL act as those cables, holding the knee in proper alignment.
ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament): Prevents the shinbone (tibia) from sliding forward.
PCL (Posterior Cruciate Ligament): Prevents the tibia from moving backward.
These injuries commonly occur during:
Sports activities
Sudden stops or direction changes
Falls or direct impact to the knee
Road traffic accidents
Common Symptoms
Knee pain and swelling
Instability or “giving way” sensation
Difficulty walking or bearing weight
Reduced range of motion
ACL RECONSTRUCTION SURGERY
A torn ACL usually does not heal on its own due to limited blood supply. ACL reconstruction surgery is often recommended to restore knee stability and prevent further joint damage.
Procedure Overview
The damaged ligament is replaced with a tissue graft
Grafts may come from:
Patellar tendon
Hamstring tendon
Quadriceps tendon
Donor tissue (allograft)
Surgery is performed using arthroscopic (keyhole) techniques
Small incisions ensure faster recovery and minimal scarring
Post-surgery, structured physiotherapy and rehabilitation are essential for regaining strength and flexibility.
PCL RECONSTRUCTION SURGERY
PCL injuries are less common but can cause significant instability, especially if combined with other knee injuries.
Treatment Approach
Damaged PCL is reconstructed using a graft
Arthroscopic surgery ensures precision and quicker healing
Rehabilitation focuses on:
Restoring knee motion
Strengthening surrounding muscles
Gradual weight-bearing
The Best Orthopaedic Hospital in Agra provides customized rehabilitation programs to ensure optimal recovery after PCL reconstruction.
RECOVERY AND REHABILITATION
Recovery after ACL or PCL surgery requires patience and commitment.
Recovery Timeline
Initial rest and pain management
Gradual return of knee movement
Strength training and balance exercises
Return to sports and normal activities over several months
Avoid high-impact activities like running or jumping in the early phase to prevent reinjury.