What does your anterior cruciate ligament do?
The anterior cruciate ligament is one of the four main important knee ligaments, and serves three important functions:
- Gives your knee twisting stability, especially in sports such as football, rugby and skiing.
- Protects other structures in the knee for future damage, such as the meniscus cartilage.
- Slows down the possible future onset of arthritis
Need to know
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What are the treatment options for ACL tears? icon plus
First your consultant will assess your knee injury very carefully, this will include questions, a physical examination, and an MRI. Your consultant will then discuss treatment options with you, including non-surgical treatment as well as surgical reconstruction.
If you wish to consider surgery, then your consultant will discuss with you:
- Graft (New ACL tissue) tissue to be used
- Potential risks of surgery, including risk of failure
- Planned benefits of surgery
- Rehabilitation
- Success rates, and timing of return to sport.
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How to prepare for ACL surgery icon plus
Where your knee is still sore, and stiff pre-surgery (Pre-hab) physio is needed to prepare your knee for your operation. -
After surgery icon plus
How fast you recover varies from person to person. Physiotherapy is vital. Your consultant will usually recommend exercises to start immediately after your surgery.
You may also be advised to use a knee brace and crutches. Regular cleaning of the wound, as well as icing it to reduce swelling, can also help. Talk to your consultant about what steps you can take to help your recovery.
Your consultant will let you know when you can get back to your usual routine, including work.
Don't wait, pay for yourself
We offer this treatment at a fixed price at some of our facilities.
Our locations
From complex orthopaedic surgery to straightforward diagnostic scans and minor procedures, we provide exceptional care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.
Request a knee appointment
We're happy to help you make an appointment with one of our experienced knee consultants. We can also make imaging and outpatient physiotherapy appointments for you.
020 7079 4344
This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.