Ligament Reconstruction Beverly Hills
Ligaments are among the most important structures for stabilizing the knee joint. Composed of fibrous tissue, ligaments also connect the bones of the knee and hold them together. There are four separate ligaments in the human knee. They are called:
- Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL)
- Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL)
- Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL)
- Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL)
Because of its location in the body, the knee is one of the most vulnerable joints. Athletes are especially prone to damaging ligaments in the knee. When this happens, patients often need to undergo a surgical procedure known as ligament reconstruction. Beverly Hills surgeons typically perform ligament reconstruction as an arthroscopic procedure. To learn more about ligament reconstruction in Beverly Hills, contact Meier Orthopedic Sports Medicine today. Our number is (310) 777-7845.
Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
The ACL is among the most commonly injured ligaments in the knee. Damage to the ACL often occurs due to:
- Twisting of the knee
- Impact to knee
- Landing awkwardly
ACL reconstruction surgery is done to repair a torn or damaged anterior cruciate ligament. The tissue that is used to reconstruct the ligament comes in two forms, an autograft or an allograft. An autograft is tissue that is taken from the patient’s own body. An allograft is tissue that is taken from a donor. Once the graft is procured, the doctor will enter the knee, often arthroscopically, and remove the damaged ligament. The surgeon will then make holes in the bone to thread the graft through. Once this is done the surgeon will attach the graft to the bones using surgical screws or some other devices.
Recovery from ACL Reconstruction
Most patients are able to return home immediately following ligament reconstruction in Beverly Hills. Patients will also wear a knee brace and use crutches for several weeks after the procedure. Most patients are encouraged to move the knee after surgery to maintain flexibility. To find out more about ligament reconstruction at Meier Orthopedic Sports Medicine, contact us today!