ACL reconstruction

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the four ligaments of the knee joint that connects the femur and tibia. It is subjected to high loads during sports. Injuries often occur due to sudden accelerations and stops, for example in football, basketball, gymnastics, or skiing. They lead to joint instability, pain, and limited mobility.

Surgical treatment of anterior cruciate ligament rupture

Specialists at the Mashtaler Ortho&Trauma Center use modern arthroscopic methods to treat anterior cruciate ligament rupture. This involves the insertion of an arthroscope and other surgical instruments through small incisions. During surgery, the damaged ligament is removed and replaced with a graft — a tendon taken from the thigh or lower leg. This allows full or partial restoration of knee joint function and mobility.

An orthopedic surgeon prepares the patient for surgery.

Arthroscopic reconstruction has numerous advantages over traditional surgical methods:

• High efficiency — the procedure helps restore stability in severe cases when conservative treatment does not provide the desired result;
  
• Minimal trauma — tissues heal quickly; within a week, the patient can begin active rehabilitation and gradually return to normal activities;
• Lower risk of complications — by limiting stress on the knee joint and following individualized rehabilitation recommendations, full recovery of mobility and stability can be achieved.
  

When is ACL reconstruction needed?

1. Complete ligament rupture. ACL reconstruction is often the only way to restore full joint stability and function. This is one of the most common treatments for athletes.
2. Complex injuries. The procedure is indicated for combined injuries involving multiple ligaments, menisci, and articular cartilage.
   
3. Chronic knee instability. Surgical reconstruction may be combined with conservative treatment.
4. Risk of secondary damage. Surgery helps prevent damage to other knee structures caused by instability and reduces the risk of developing osteoarthritis.

When is ACL reconstruction contraindicated?

1. Severe systemic diseases. Heart or respiratory failure, decompensated diabetes mellitus.
   
2. Severely impaired joint function. Contraindications include advanced osteoarthritis and significant joint deformities.
   
3. Acute infectious diseases. Systemic infections or local infections at the surgical site.
   
4. Blood clotting disorders. Hematologic diseases, hereditary hemophilia, or ongoing anticoagulant therapy.
5. Advanced age. Although age itself is not an absolute contraindication, in patients over 60–65 years the decision is made individually, considering activity level, expected outcomes, and risks.
   
   

How and how long is ACL reconstruction performed?

The first stage is a preliminary examination and consultation. The doctor assesses the condition of the joint and the nature of the injury, identifies contraindications, and collects medical history. The cost of surgery is calculated, and after agreement with the patient, the procedure date is scheduled.

In our clinic, arthroscopy is performed under regional anesthesia combined with sedation — the patient remains in a light sleep. This approach ensures a high level of comfort and minimizes the risk of complications.

Treatment is carried out according to the following scheme:

1. Joint access. In the knee area, 3–4 small incisions are made to introduce an arthroscope with a camera and the necessary surgical instruments.
   
2. Joint arthroscopy. A final assessment of intra-articular damage and confirmation of ligament rupture are performed. Concomitant injuries to the meniscus and articular cartilage are treated. Remnants of the torn ligament are removed, and tunnels are created in the femur and tibia for graft fixation.
   
3. Graft harvesting. Using minimally invasive techniques, part of a tendon is taken from another area of the limb to replace the damaged ligament.
   
4. Graft fixation. The graft is placed into the prepared tunnels and secured with special implants. It serves as a framework for new connective tissue growth.
5. Completion. The surgeon checks joint stability and mobility. After confirming proper function, the instruments are removed, the joint is irrigated, and sutures and sterile dressings are applied.
   

The total duration of the procedure is 1–2 hours, depending on the extent of surgery. Afterward, the patient typically stays one night in the hospital under medical supervision. During this time, patients learn to walk with crutches and use an orthosis or brace.

What are the risks of anterior cruciate ligament surgery?

Modern surgical techniques in orthopedics and traumatology minimize the risk of complications and ensure rapid rehabilitation. However, if medical recommendations are not followed, the following complications may occur:

• recurrent ligament rupture after returning to sports;
  
• poor graft integration;
  
• persistent pain and limited mobility.
  
  

Therefore, specialists at our medical center carefully select optimal treatment strategies and rehabilitation plans for each patient to minimize risks.

Effectiveness of arthroscopic ACL reconstruction

By choosing our clinic for ACL reconstruction in Lviv, you can expect the following results:

1. High success rate — in up to 97% of cases, full restoration of knee joint function is achieved;
   
2. Return to an active lifestyle — most patients resume sports activities within 6–12 months after surgery;
3. Long-term results — surgical reconstruction combined with physical therapy significantly reduces pain and improves quality of life over time.
   

Advantages of Mashtaler Ortho & Trauma Center

1. Team of professionals. Over 27 years of experience and international medical qualifications recognized in more than 20 countries. We ensure high effectiveness and maximum safety in all treatments.
   
2. Modern minimally invasive techniques. Arthroscopy reduces tissue trauma, accelerates rehabilitation, and optimizes treatment cost.
   
3. Comprehensive approach. We provide a full range of orthopedic and traumatology services for all musculoskeletal conditions.
   
4. Patient-centered care. We prioritize comfort, safety, and high-quality service, making every visit to our center as comfortable as possible.
   
   

Learn more about ACL reconstruction and receive a personalized treatment plan at Mashtaler Ortho & Trauma Center — schedule your consultation today.

The price of cruciate ligament surgery in our clinic

The cost of surgery depends on several factors, including the extent of meniscus or cartilage damage, the degree of joint instability, and other individual considerations. To clarify the cost of ACL reconstruction in Lviv, please schedule a consultation and diagnostic assessment at our medical center.

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