PRESERVE ACL Surgery

Repair The ACL Without A Total Knee Replacement

What is ACL Preservation Surgery?

ACL Preservation, also known as PRESERVE ACL Repair Surgery, is a recently-popularized surgical procedure that reattaches a patient’s torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) back to their femur bone in instances where the ligament tears away from its natural attachment to the femur. This treatment makes it possible to repair the ACL without the need for a graft, which requires a total knee replacement. About 30% of ACL injuries can be treated using ACL Preservation.

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PRESERVE ACL Surgery Process

In the event that an ACL tear has occurred at the femur site, this technique allows doctors to go in and use sutures to reattach the ACL to the femur. Prior to surgery, patients are given a nerve block by an anesthesiologist to significantly reduce pain after surgery. 

During surgery, a small, 3-4mm hole is created in the femur where the ACL normally attaches. High-strength sutures are then placed in the ACL and inserted through this hole, securing the ligament to the bone. In addition, a collagen-coated suture tape is placed along the ACL to act as an internal brace. This tape functions as an ACL while the actual ligament heals, shielding stress from the ACL during the natural healing process.

Advantages of PRESERVE ACL Surgery

PRESERVE ACL Repair Surgery allows orthopedic surgeons to primarily repair the damaged ligament instead of having to replace it. In about 30% of cases involving a torn ACL, it may be possible to use this technique as an alternative to a total replacement. This has a series of benefits for the patient such as:

  • Not having to harvest a graft and replace the ACL completely
  • Offering a less invasive option compared to traditional ACL reconstruction
  • Reducing recovery time after surgery
  • Providing a more natural feeling in and around the knee
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Recovery from ACL PRESERVation Surgery

After ACL surgery, you should immediately be able to bear weight with the assistance of a knee brace. In addition, you’ll be able to test the range of motion in your knee to prevent stiffness during and after recovery. Because this surgical option is less invasive than other, more complex forms of ACL restoration, recovery time is generally shorter, so long as you follow the same rehabilitation protocol.

The rehabilitation protocol we use for PRESERVE ACL Surgery is identical to the one we use for total ACL reconstructions.

Watch Dr. Goradia Talk More About This Technique

Is This Technique Right For You?

Before you can know if this treatment is right for you, Dr. Goradia will need to review your MRI to determine if the ACL is torn mid-substance or directly from its attachment to the femur. To consult with an orthopedic surgeon today, local patients should schedule an appointment with Dr. Goradia to discuss their treatment options.

Non-local or out-of-town patients may mail their MRI disk or email the DICOM folder from their MRI disk to G2 Orthopedics directly. Patients will be sent an informational packet and a phone call will be scheduled with Dr. Goradia to answer any questions. Once surgery is scheduled, patients will need to arrive one day prior to surgery for a consultation with Dr. Goradia.

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