ACL and PCL Reconstruction
Surgical reconstruction of the anterior and posterior cruciate ligaments using a tendon graft — restoring complete knee stability after multi-ligament injuries.
What is ACL and PCL Reconstruction?
ACL and PCL Reconstruction restores stability to the knee after injuries to one or both of its major cruciate ligaments. The ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) controls forward shin-bone movement and rotational stability, while the PCL (Posterior Cruciate Ligament) prevents the shin bone from moving backward. When either tears due to sports injuries, accidents, or sudden twisting movements, the knee becomes unstable and painful. Reconstruction involves replacing the torn ligament with a tendon graft — taken from the patient's own hamstring or patellar tendon, or from a donor source — which is fixed in place to restore the natural function and stability of the knee joint.
How the Procedure Works
Pre-operative Assessment
Clinical examination and MRI confirm the ligament injury and assess any associated cartilage or meniscus damage; anaesthesia is administered on the day of surgery.
Arthroscopic Access
Small keyhole incisions allow insertion of the arthroscope, providing a clear view of all knee structures to guide precise graft placement.
Removal of Torn Ligament
The damaged ligament tissue is carefully removed while preserving the surrounding joint structures as completely as possible.
Graft Preparation & Bone Tunnels
A tendon graft is prepared from the hamstring, patellar tendon, or donor source; tunnels are created in the femur and tibia at the correct anatomical positions.
Graft Fixation & Stability Testing
The graft is passed through the bone tunnels and secured using screws or fixation devices; knee movement and stability are confirmed.
Wound Closure & Rehabilitation Start
Incisions are closed with sutures and a dressing applied; a structured rehabilitation programme begins to restore knee strength and mobility.
Outcomes
Who Needs This Treatment?
- →Restores full knee stability after single or multi-ligament injuries
- →Minimally invasive arthroscopic approach — small incisions, less tissue disruption
- →Graft source selected based on individual patient anatomy and demands
- →ACL and PCL can be addressed in the same surgical session when required
- →Prevents progressive knee cartilage damage caused by persistent instability
- →Structured physiotherapy guides safe, progressive return to activity and sport
“Knee ligament reconstruction — whether of the ACL, PCL, or both — is about giving the patient back a stable, functional joint. The right graft, precise tunnel positioning, and committed rehabilitation are what make the difference between a good and an excellent outcome.”
— Dr. Satish Reddy Gandavarapu, Senior Orthopaedic & Trauma Surgeon, Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad
Common Questions
Frequently Asked
Not sure which treatment is right for you?
Book a consultation with Dr. Satish Reddy and get a personalised treatment plan.