What Parents Need to Know About ACL Reconstruction Surgery for Kids
ACL reconstruction surgery can offer significant benefits for children with ACL injuries, providing them with improved knee stability, and function, and the opportunity to return to sports and physical activities they enjoy. As a parent, understanding the essentials of ACL reconstruction surgery empowers you to make informed decisions and support your child throughout their healthcare journey.
Consult with POBAR, to discuss your child’s orthopedic treatment options. If your child has experienced an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury, you may have questions and concerns about the recommended treatment options. One common approach to address ACL injuries in kids is ACL reconstruction surgery.
In this blog post, we help parents understand the essentials of ACL reconstruction surgery for kids.
What is an Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL)
The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the major ligaments in the knee joint. It is a strong, fibrous band of tissue that connects the thigh bone (femur) to the shinbone (tibia) and helps stabilize the knee during movement.
The ACL plays a crucial role in maintaining the stability of the knee joint by preventing excessive forward movement of the tibia in relation to the femur and controlling rotational movements of the knee.
It also works together with other ligaments, muscles, and tendons to provide support and stability during activities such as running, jumping, pivoting, and changing direction.
What Causes An Injury To The ACL?
The causes of an ACL injury are multifaceted, often involving a combination of factors that conspire against the ligament's strength and resilience. Among the primary culprits is sudden, excessive force or impact on the knee joint.
This can occur during sports activities such as
football
basketball
soccer
skiing
gymnastics
When an athlete experiences a direct blow to the knee or a forceful twisting motion that places undue stress on the ligament. These high-impact incidents can occur as a result of collisions with other players, sudden changes in direction, or awkward landings from jumps. ACL tears typically occur when the knee undergoes excessive twisting or hyperextension beyond its normal range of motion.
Another key contributor to ACL injuries is the interaction between biomechanics and neuromuscular control. Poor body mechanics, such as improper landing techniques or sudden deceleration without adequate muscular support, can place an immense strain on the ACL.
The intricate interplay between muscle strength, coordination, and joint stability is of utmost importance in preventing ACL injuries. Deficits in these areas, such as muscular imbalances, reduced proprioception, or delayed neuromuscular responses, can undermine the ligament's ability to withstand external forces, making it more susceptible to injury. Read more about how you can strengthen the ACL.
Anatomical factors also play a role in ACL injury occurrence. Certain individuals may have inherent characteristics that predispose them to ligamentous laxity or abnormal knee alignment, creating an environment ripe for ACL damage.
Finally, environmental conditions and playing surfaces can contribute to ACL injuries. Slippery or uneven surfaces can cause a loss of traction, leading to sudden twists or falls that place excessive strain on the ACL. It is essential to consider these external factors when assessing the risks associated with certain activities or sports.
What Are The Symptoms Of An Injured ACL?
Symptoms of an ACL tear may include:
A popping sound at the time of injury,
Immediate pain and
Swelling,
Difficulty bearing weight on the affected leg,
Instability or a feeling of the knee giving way, and
Limited range of motion.
How Is An Injured ACL Diagnosed?
Diagnosis of an ACL tear involves a
Thorough physical examination, including
Tests to assess the stability and integrity of the knee joint, as well as
Imaging studies like magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to confirm the diagnosis and
Evaluate the extent of the injury.
What Treatment Is Available for ACL Injury?
Treatment options for an ACL injury depend on the severity of the injury, the individual's activity level, and their overall knee stability goals. Non-surgical treatment may be appropriate for some individuals, especially those with less active lifestyles or mild injuries.
Rest, physical therapy
Bracing
Activity modifications to help regain strength and stability in the knee.
For individuals who require a more stable knee for sports or activities that involve cutting or pivoting movements, surgical reconstruction of the ACL may be recommended.
What Is ACL Reconstruction Surgery?
ACL Reconstruction Surgery involves replacing the torn ligament with a graft, often obtained from the individual's own hamstring tendon or patellar tendon, or using a donor graft.
Surgery is usually followed by a comprehensive rehabilitation program to restore strength, flexibility, and functional stability.
How Long Does Recovery Take?
Recovery from an ACL injury can take several months, and rehabilitation plays a critical role in restoring knee function and preventing future injuries.
Rehabilitation typically includes exercises to improve strength, balance, and range of motion, as well as sport-specific training to help individuals return to their desired activities safely. You can read more about the chances of retearing your ACL after surgery.
It's important to consult with a pediatric orthopedic surgeon or sports medicine physician, for an accurate diagnosis, appropriate treatment recommendations, and personalized rehabilitation guidance.
When Is ACL Reconstruction Surgery Recommended?
ACL reconstruction surgery is typically recommended for children who have significant ACL tears that affect knee stability and impair their ability to engage in sports or physical activities.
The decision to proceed with surgery is made based on various factors, including the child's age, activity level, growth plate status, and the extent of the ACL injury. Your child's orthopedic surgeon will thoroughly evaluate these factors and discuss the potential benefits and risks of surgery with you.
Understanding the essentials of ACL reconstruction surgery empowers you to make informed decisions and support your child throughout their healthcare journey.
Remember to consult with a qualified orthopedic surgeon specializing in pediatric ACL injuries to assess your child's condition, discuss treatment options, and create a tailored plan for their recovery. With proper medical care, guidance, and rehabilitation, your child can regain strength, confidence, and an active lifestyle after ACL reconstruction surgery. You can read more about who is eligible for this surgery.
For A Detailed Treatment Plan For ACL, Speak to Our Leading Pediatric Orthopedic Doctors in Brandon & Tampa, Florida.
We’re a friendly pediatric team based in Brandon and Tampa, Florida, and we’re pros at dealing with ACL. If your child has ACL and needs to see a medical professional, get in touch with us.
At POBAR, we take your child’s health seriously and offer an incredibly high standard of care and knowledge. Ready to speak to one of our caring doctors? Book an appointment today!