ACL reconstruction is a procedure that replaces a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in your knee. Usually performed using a minimally invasive keyhole technique, the surgeon removes the damaged ligament and replaces it with a graft. Most patients regain full range of motion within three months and fully recover between six and nine months.
If you or a loved one need ACL reconstruction surgery, Ramsay Health Care offers expert care and support throughout your treatment and recovery. Below, you’ll find detailed information on the procedure, who needs it, recovery expectations, and answers to common questions.
What is ACL reconstruction surgery?
Ligaments are strong, flexible tissues that connect bones to other bones. The ACL is a ligament in your knee, connecting your shine bone (tibia) to your thighbone (femur) and providing stability.
When the ACL is partially or completely torn – often due to sports injuries or accidents – ACL reconstruction surgery replaces the damaged ligament with a graft. This graft usually comes from your own body (such as your hamstring or another part of your knee) or from a donor.
The surgery is typically done arthroscopically, meaning small incisions using a camera and specialised tools. This keyhole approach reduces pain and speeds recovery compared to traditional open surgery.
Who might need ACL reconstruction surgery?
ACL knee injuries most commonly happen during sports through sudden twists, landings, or impacts. They can also occur from falls or slips.
If your ACL is torn, you may experience:
- Knee instability or giving way
- Pain and swelling
- Reduced range of motion
- Difficulty returning to daily activities or sports
Whether you’ll need ACL reconstruction surgery will depend on how badly your anterior cruciate ligament is damaged.
ACL reconstruction may be recommended if:
- You have a complete ACL tear (partial tears can sometimes heal without surgery)
- You lead an active lifestyle or play sports
- Your knee feels unstable or painful
- There is a risk of further knee damage
What does the ACL reconstruction procedure involve?
ACL reconstruction surgeries are usually carried out under general or spinal anaesthesia.
The surgeon makes small incisions around your knee to insert a thin, flexible tube with a light and camera on the end of it (called an arthroscope), to see inside your knee. Using surgical tools, the damaged ACL is removed, and the ligament graft is positioned through tunnels drilled into your thigh and shin bones. The graft is secured with screws or staples. Incisions are closed, usually with dissolvable stitches.
Because arthroscopic ACL reconstruction surgery is minimally invasive, patients generally experience less pain, lower infection risk, and faster recovery.
How long does ACL reconstruction take?
ACL surgery typically takes one to three hours.
How soon should you get ACL surgery?
If you have damaged your anterior cruciate ligament, and surgery is recommended, it’s usually advised to have it within three to six weeks – once swelling has reduced and knee motion improved.
Delaying surgery can increase pain, knee instability, and risk of further injury such as meniscus or cartilage damage.
Your surgeon will recommend the best timing for your ACL reconstruction surgery based on:
- Severity of the ACL tear
- Amount of inflammation
- Range of motion in your knee
- How much pain you’re in
- Whether you have other coinciding injuries
Potential complications of ACL reconstruction surgery
Most patients recover well from ACL reconstruction surgery, but as with any operation, complications can occur.
General risks include:
- Pain
- Bleeding
- Scarring
- Blood clots (deep vein thrombosis)
- Complications from anaesthesia
Complications specific to ACL reconstruction surgery include:
- Graft failure or re-tear
- Kneecap fracture
- Nerve damage or numbness
- Knee stiffness or reduced mobility
- Arthritis development
- Knee joint infection
- Persistent knee instability
ACL reconstruction recovery timeline
It typically takes around six months to fully recover from an ACL reconstruction operation.
ACL reconstruction recovery times will vary by individual, but generally follows these phrases:
Acute recovery phase: 0–2 weeks post-surgery
- Early mobilisation with standing and walking using crutches
- Pain and swelling management
- Gently physiotherapy exercises to regain some movement and strength
Early rehab phase: 2–6 weeks post-surgery
- Improve knee range of motion
- Walk unaided and restore normal gait
- Increase leg muscle strength
- Significant reduction or elimination of pain
Strengthening phase: 6–12 weeks post-surgery
- Begin light exercise and low-impact sports (e.g. swimming, cycling), as guided by your physiotherapist
- Focus will be on knee control and muscle strength
Functional training phase: 3-6 months post-surgery
- Advance to jogging, running, agility and plyometric training
- Focus on rebuilding full leg strength and stability
Returning to sport phase: 6-9 months post-surgery
- Sport-specific training tailored to your goals
- Return to non-contact sports often possible by 6 months
- Full-contact sports may require up to 9 months before safe return
ACL reconstruction surgery cost
Ramsay Health Care offers an all-inclusive Total Care package for self-funded patients, covering all treatment stages with a single, upfront price.
Flexible finance options are also available.
If you have medical insurance, ACL reconstruction may be covered. We recommend confirming your policy details with your provider before treatment.
Choose Ramsay Health Care for your ACL reconstruction surgery
At Ramsay Health Care, we understand the challenges an ACL knee injury can bring.
With years of expertise in ACL reconstruction and rehabilitation, we offer rapid access to expert orthopaedic knee surgeons and comprehensive onsite support, including physiotherapy and diagnostic imaging.
Our hospitals are equipped with modern technology to ensure the best surgical outcomes and recovery experience.
Contact us today to learn more about ACL reconstruction surgery with Ramsay Health Care.
