- What is Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) repair?
ACL surgery is a procedure to repair or rebuild the anterior cruciate ligament, which helps keep the knee stable.
- Why is Anterior Cruciate Ligament surgery needed?
Surgery is usually needed when the Anterior Cruciate Ligament is torn or completely ruptured, causing knee instability, pain or difficulty walking.
- Who is a good candidate for ACL surgery?
You may need surgery if you have a severe or complete ACL tear, your knee feels unstable, you are active in sports or if you have other knee injuries (meniscus, cartilage).
- How is ACL surgery performed?
The surgeon makes 2 to 3 small incisions, uses a camera (arthroscope), and replaces the torn ligament with a graft.
- What types of grafts are used?
Two main graft types: autograft and allograft. Autograft is tissue from your own body (hamstring, patellar or quadriceps tendon); allograft is tissue from a donor.
- What happens right after surgery?
You will stay in the recovery room for a few hours. Your knee will be in a brace, and you should elevate your leg to reduce swelling.
- How long is the recovery period?
Full recovery usually takes 6 to 12 months, depending on healing and physical therapy.
- When can I walk again?
You may walk with crutches at first. Weight-bearing increases slowly as your knee heals.
- When can I return to sports?
Most patients return to sports after 6 to 12 months, once strength and stability are restores through rehabilitation.
- What are the benefits of ACL surgery?
Better knee stability, less pain, improved movement and ability to return to sports are benefits of ACL surgery.
- How much does ACL surgery cost in Turkey?
Costs vary depending on graft type, surgeon experience, hospital quality, rehabilitation needs.
- Is ACL repair different from ACL reconstruction?
ACL repair is fixing the original ligament; ACL reconstruction is replacing the ligament with a graft.
- Will I need physical therapy?
Yes. Physical therapy starts immediately after surgery and continues for months. It is essential for a successful recovery.
- Can the ACL tear again after surgery?
Yes, but the risk is low if you follow your rehabilitation plan and avoid high-risk activities early in recovery.
- When can I drive again?
Most patients can drive after 2 to 6 weeks, depending on which leg was operated on and how well they can control the knee.