Usually, orthopedic surgeons use arthroplasty for ACL replacement. This involves the insertion of a tiny camera and tool through a small incision at your knee. This results in minimal scars and faster recovery. The process of ACL reconstruction surgery takes nearly 1 hour and can be done using general anesthesia.
The surgeon places the graft in the right place at the very first step. Then the doctor makes 2 holes, one above the knee and one below the knee, and places the screws in the holes (tunnels) to hold the graft in place. It works as a bridge, and your new ligaments will grow on it in your recovery process. Total growth of new ACL takes up to 1 month.
Many patients are discharged the same day from hospital after the surgery. The doctor advises the patients not to walk unnecessarily, to give complete rest to the knee and to use a brace to protect the joint.