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Ligaments are vital for supporting and limiting the movement of joints. However, ligament injuries are common in sports, particularly in the knee. When a knee ligament is torn, surgery may be required to repair the damage.
Tendon Replacement
During knee ligament surgery, a healthy tendon is used to replace the torn ligament. This involves transplanting a tendon from either the hamstring or kneecap into the knee joint to hold it together. The tendon graft can either come from the patient (autograft) or an organ donor (allograft).
Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Injuries
One of the most common types of knee injuries is an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. This type of injury can occur during sports such as skiing, tennis, squash, and football.
ACL injuries are typically caused by the lower leg extending too far forward, which can put excessive strain on the ligament. Twisting of the knee and lower leg can also cause ACL tears.
Reconstructive Surgery
If the ACL in your knee is torn, you may require reconstructive surgery. This involves replacing the damaged ligament with a healthy tendon graft.
Final Thoughts
Knee ligament surgery can be a complex procedure, and recovery time can vary depending on the extent of the injury. However, with proper care and rehabilitation, many patients are able to fully recover and return to their normal activities.
