An expert’s guide to ACL reconstruction

The ACL, anterior cruciate ligament, is an important ligament in the knee. Through sport or other strenuous activity it can tear, either partially or completely. To speed up the recovery process, ACL reconstruction can be performed, replacing the torn ligament. In this insightful article, highly respected and leading consultant orthopaedic knee surgeon Mr Simon Thompson shares his expertise on ACL reconstruction. The internationally-renowned surgeon, who treats patients in London and Surrey, discusses how the ACL is reconstructed, who is suitable for the surgery, and under what circumstances revision surgery may be needed. 

How is an ACL reconstruction performed?

I perform ACL reconstruction using minimally invasive techniques such as the hamstring tendons technique or patella tendon technique, or with allograft (donor graft). 

When and why is it required?

This injury typically occurs in people who ski or as a result of contact sport, even if not in a contact situation. My award-winning research shows that if the patient has instability, then reconstruction is a great option. It provides the patient with a stable knee which prevents damaging other structures in the knee. It can also stop the patient from developing premature arthritis which would require a much bigger surgery at a later stage in life. 

Who is the ideal candidate? 

I have reconstructed ACLs in patients from the age of seven up to eighty-seven. Patients at either end of the spectrum have benefitted from successful surgeries. There is no age limit to this surgery. There’s no age barrier to getting a stable knee back and preventing further injuries and arthritis. The ideal candidate is a patient who is motivated to get back to their sport and who wants to have a stable knee again. 

Is there anyone who might not be suitable?

Every patient is treated as an individual and I provide them with all the options for this injury. Non-operative management is an option. However, very few patients would be suitable or take this option due to their desire to return to sport and normal function with a stable knee.

When will someone require a new ACL reconstruction? Will one be enough?

Sometimes patients may have had this surgery performed and it may not have worked as they would have hoped. After ACL reconstruction, the ACL may rupture again through another injury or if the previous reconstruction has failed. A thorough assessment including radiological imaging is performed. This is crucial to assess the options for restoring their knee stability.

Mr Simon Thompson is renowned internationally for his work. If you are interested in booking a consultation with him, you can do so by visiting his Top Doctors profile.