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Arthroscopic ACL Reconstruction for Knee Instability

Doctor’s Name: Dr. Sandeep Singh
Clinic/Hospital Name: CARE Super Specialty Hospital, Bhubaneswar

Patient’s Name: Mr. Ankit Patra
Patient’s Age: 21
Gender: Male

Symptoms Shown by the Patient

  • Knee instability, especially while walking and changing direction
  • Difficulty performing sports movements without discomfort
  • Occasional episodes of the knee “giving way”

An Overview of the Case

Mr. Ankit Patra, a 21-year-old competitive badminton player, experienced knee instability following a sports injury during a match. While moving swiftly to reach a shuttlecock, he felt a sharp pain and a popping sensation in his left knee, followed by swelling. Although the initial swelling subsided, he continued to experience instability, which affected his performance and confidence on the court. Determined to return to his sport, he sought help from Dr. Sandeep Singh, a renowned orthopedic doctor in Bhubaneswar, specializing in sports injuries.

Diagnostic Method

  • Physical examination to assess knee stability
  • MRI of the knee to confirm the diagnosis

The MRI revealed a complete tear of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), leading to the instability in Mr. Patra’s knee.

Disease Diagnosed:
Complete ACL tear

Medical Tests Performed:

  • MRI to assess the extent of the ACL injury
  • Lachman test and pivot shift test to evaluate knee stability

Treatment Provided to the Patient

Dr. Sandeep Singh recommended arthroscopic ACL reconstruction to restore knee stability and allow Mr. Patra to resume his sports activities. The procedure was thoroughly explained to the patient, including the benefits, risks, and recovery process.

During the arthroscopic surgery, Dr. Singh made small incisions around the knee joint and inserted an arthroscope to visualize the injury. The torn ACL was removed, and a tendon graft was harvested from Mr. Patra’s hamstring to replace the damaged ligament. Dr. Singh drilled small tunnels into the thighbone and shinbone to place the graft accurately, securing it with screws to provide a stable new ligament.

Guidelines Provided After Treatment

  • Begin a structured physiotherapy program as advised by the rehabilitation team
  • Use a knee brace during early rehabilitation to protect the graft
  • Gradually increase the intensity of exercises, focusing on strengthening the knee and improving range of motion
  • Avoid high-impact activities, such as running and jumping, for at least four months
  • Follow-up appointments to monitor recovery and make adjustments to the rehabilitation plan if necessary

Post-Operative Assessment

Mr. Patra showed good progress just two weeks after surgery, with reduced pain and improved knee stability. By three months post-surgery, he had regained nearly full range of motion and was performing strengthening exercises. At four months, he was back on the badminton court, practicing under controlled conditions and steadily returning to competitive play. His knee demonstrated stable function during sports movements.

Guidelines Provided After Treatment

  • Begin a structured physiotherapy program as advised by the rehabilitation team
  • Use a knee brace during early rehabilitation to protect the graft
  • Gradually increase the intensity of exercises, focusing on strengthening the knee and improving range of motion
  • Avoid high-impact activities, such as running and jumping, for at least four months
  • Follow-up appointments to monitor recovery and make adjustments to the rehabilitation plan if necessary

Outcome

The arthroscopic ACL reconstruction was a success, allowing Mr. Patra to return to playing badminton within four months. He regained full knee stability and resumed his training with confidence.

Long-term Expectation

Mr. Patra is expected to have a stable and functional knee for life, allowing him to continue participating in sports without limitations.

Feedback from the Patient

Mr. Ankit Patra expressed his satisfaction, stating, “Dr. Sandeep Singh, the best orthopedic doctor in Bhubaneswar, guided me through every step of my recovery. Thanks to his expertise, I was able to get back on the badminton court and pursue my passion without any fear. I’m extremely happy with the results and grateful for his outstanding care.”

Relevant Questions

How soon can an athlete return to sports after ACL reconstruction?
Typically, athletes can return to sports activities four to six months after surgery, depending on rehabilitation progress.
What precautions should be taken during the recovery period?
Patients should follow their physiotherapy plan, avoid high-impact activities, and attend regular follow-ups to monitor recovery.
What are the signs that may indicate a successful ACL recovery?
A successful ACL recovery is indicated by the restoration of knee stability, absence of pain during movements, full range of motion, and the ability to perform sports-specific activities without discomfort.
Are there any long-term risks associated with ACL reconstruction?
While ACL reconstruction generally has a high success rate, there can be long-term risks such as stiffness, re-injury, or osteoarthritis. Adhering to the rehabilitation program helps reduce these risks.
How important is physiotherapy after ACL surgery?
Physiotherapy is crucial for regaining strength, improving range of motion, and ensuring a full recovery. It helps the patient return to daily activities and sports safely.
Can an ACL tear heal without surgery?

Partial tears may be managed with physiotherapy, but complete ACL tears often require surgery for athletes or active individuals who wish to return to sports.

What activities should be avoided after ACL reconstruction surgery?

High-impact activities such as running, jumping, or pivoting should be avoided for at least four to six months. Activities should be gradually reintroduced under the guidance of a physiotherapist.

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