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ACL reconstruction in France

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of four knee ligaments, which act like strong ropes holding your knee bones together. There are two collateral ligaments (MCL and LCL) and 2 cruciate ligaments, which cross each other to form an ‘X’.

All the knee’s ligaments allow joint surfaces to remain in contact during movement and thus ensure the stability of the joint. Cruciate ligaments and especially the anterior cruciate ligament provide most of the stability of the knee.

When a ligament becomes injured, it is referred to as sprained. A grade from 1-3 is assigned to the sprain depending on the severity (1 being the least and 3 being the most).

In the case of a torn cruciate ligament (a grade 3 sprain), the stability of the entire knee is compromised and corrective action must be taken.

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  • keyboard_arrow_rightWhat causes a sprained ACL?
  • keyboard_arrow_rightMobility considerations of a ruptured ACL
  • keyboard_arrow_rightRuptured ACL symptoms and signs
    The classic tri-sign of a ruptured ACL rupture is cracking – dislocation – immediate swelling. The individual feels a cracking or tearing sensation in the knee. The dislocation is extremely painful and the knee will look physically deformed. Shortly after the injury has occurred, the knee begins to swell significantly and walking is difficult or impossible.

    Unfortunately, in some cases, these signs do not exist, the knee does not swell, for example. Pain is also not always a good sign because in some breaks, it is minimal or absent. That is why a specialist consultation is necessary when knee sprain.
  • keyboard_arrow_rightACL rupture diagnosis
    The ACL rupture diagnosis is a clinical diagnosis. If the ACL is intact, the knee is stable, if it is broken, we say the knee is lax (moves abnormally when examined). Thanks to specific tests (Lachman test), the specialist can usually tell if there is a breach or not.

    X-rays may be required to rule out a bone fracture, while an MRI scan can identify the extent of the damage to the ACL. A subsequent ultrasound may also be used to check for injuries in the ligaments, tendons and muscles of the knee.
  • keyboard_arrow_rightRuptured ACL treatment
  • keyboard_arrow_rightFunctional treatment
  • keyboard_arrow_rightSurgical treatment
    Surgical ACL treatment benefits:

    • ACL is fully repaired
    • Allows recovery of all sports
    • Definitive treatment

    Surgical ACL treatment disadvantages

    • Operative risks
    • Possible complications
    • In case of failure, complex surgery required

  • keyboard_arrow_rightWho can undergo surgical ACL treatment ?
    Fortunately, the ACL is not part of the vital organs of the human being. The vast majority of people can live normally without anterior cruciate ligament. For these individuals, the functional treatment is often enough.

    However, patients who need a perfect stability in their lives or because of sports or a job should choose surgical treatment. Surgical treatment is indicated when there are significant lesions associated with anterior cruciate ligament rupture causing instability in everyday life.
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