ACL repair surgery Washington DC is more advanced than the outdated reconstruction method of using knee ligaments

ACL repair is the newest technique that can be used help fix an injured ACL. Prior to the use of repair, ACL reconstruction surgery was almost always used to fix problematic knee injuries. However, as newer methods have been developed, they are finding that it is more beneficial to repair a ligament, if possible, instead of replacing it outright. Furthermore, a repair is less invasive and creates a more natural and shorter healing process for patients, which is a huge relief.

ACL repair surgery Washington DC specialists have found that reconstruction of an ACL generally leads to numerous benefits and actually helps to preserve blood vessels and nerve endings that would generally be removed. This is important because these tissues promote healing after the surgery. They have also found that a typical reconstruction of the ACL eventually leads to atrophy (breakdown) of the tendon and that an average repair patient recovers a month faster than one who has had reconstruction. This is an obvious benefit for a joint surgery as physical therapy is necessary as soon as possible in order to help regain original functionality, and with shorter healing times, it means that the process can begin much more quickly.

A Step by Step Breakdown of ACL Repair Surgery Washington DC

1.) To repair a torn ACL, your surgeon will first make small incisions on the knee in order to reduce scarring and gain access to the tendon ends.

2.) The surgeon will then stitch together the tear, or torn ends, of the broken ligament as they would when stitching a knife wound. Depending on the extent of the tear the stitching will be more or less extensive. The cleaner the tear the better and higher chance of success, and sometimes a small graft may still be needed if there are multiple damages to the ligament.

3.) The surgeon will then insert a type of "brace" along the repair in order to promote stability while healing. Normally in reconstruction, the patient is made to wear a brace on the outside of the knee after the surgery. For a repair, they use a small Kevlar-laced, braided suture to stabilize the stitched area inside the knee and promote healing of the wound. It also provides for future protection to the injury site.

This newer method of ACL repair is more beneficial the majority of the time. With its less invasive surgical techniques, shorter downtime, faster recovery, and future stabilization it is far superior to a complete reconstruction. If a candidadte is eligible to go the less invasive route, then this method of ACL surgery Washington DC is highly recommended.