SPORTS INJURIES
ACL Reconstruction
Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are a common sports injury in Australia, particularly in team sports that involve running, pivoting or quick changes of direction.
Dr David Kitchen provides clinical assessment and management of ACL injuries at sportsmed Stepney and sportsmed Henley Beach in Adelaide, including surgical reconstruction for patients where their ability to return to sport, work or daily movements is affected.
What is ACL Reconstruction?
The anterior cruciate ligament, or ACL, is a primary stabilising ligament inside the knee joint. It controls forward movement and rotation of the shin bone (tibia) in relation to the thigh bone (femur).
When the ACL is torn, the knee may feel unstable or unreliable, particularly during rapid or twisting movements in sports like football, netball, basketball and skiing. This instability can be detrimental to the joint over time, as repeated episodes of the knee giving way can lead to further cartilage damage.
ACL reconstruction is a surgical procedure that replaces the torn ligament with a tendon graft. This graft is typically taken from your own hamstring, quadriceps, or patellar tendon. For some patients, peroneal tendon grafts (from the lower leg) may also be an appropriate option minimising further trauma around the knee.
Lateral Extra-articular Tenodesis (LET)
In certain cases (particularly for patients under 25 or those returning to high-demand pivoting sports), Dr David Kitchen may recommend a lateral extra-articular tenodesis.
This involves taking a small portion of the iliotibial (IT) band to reinforce the reconstruction. This additional procedure helps minimise pivoting and knee hyperextension, and has been shown to significantly reduce the rate of graft rerupture.
Who May Be Suitable for ACL Reconstruction?
Not all ACL tears require surgery. Reconstruction may be considered when:
- The knee repeatedly gives way during sport or daily movements
- Instability limits your ability to perform your job or enjoy recreation
- There are associated injuries, such as meniscal tears or cartilage damage
- There is high risk of long-term joint wear due to repeated instability of the knee
A detailed clinical assessment at our Stepney or Henley Beach clinics, supported by imaging, is necessary before making a treatment decision. Dr David Kitchen will discuss surgical and non-surgical options with you to determine a personalised plan.
Potential Benefits of ACL Reconstruction
Improved Knee Stability
Fewer episodes of the knee giving way during pivoting or rotational movements.
Activity Participation
Increased ability to participate in work, training or recreation that require knee stability.
Further Injury Reduction
Improved stability can lower the risk of further meniscal damage from instability.
Movement Control
Increased control of twisting forces placed on the knee during sport or physical activity.
About the Surgery
Dr David Kitchen performs ACL reconstruction arthroscopically (more commonly known as keyhole surgery). Small incisions are made around the knee, to allow for a camera and specialised instruments. The damaged ligament fibres are then removed and replaced with the chosen tendon graft.
Carefully positioned tunnels are created in the femur and tibia to align the graft with the natural anatomy of the ACL. Fixation devices secure the graft while biological healing occurs over the following months. The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia at the Burnside Hospital Stepney, Ashford Hospital or Western Hospital. Most patients can return home the same day or after one overnight stay, depending on individual circumstances.
Recovery & Rehabilitation
Recovery following ACL reconstruction is progressive and requires a structured rehabilitation program, where you will be guided by Dr David Kitchen and the care team.
Day
1 - 7
Early Recovery
Focus is on controlling swelling, pain management and regaining early movement. Crutches or a brace will help support your knee during this period. Our team will provide you with information on how to care for your surgical site, manage pain with medications and methods such as ice therapy to help aid your recovery.
Week
1 - 6
Strength and Control
You will begin gradual strengthening of the quadriceps and hamstrings with a tailored physiotherapy program. Most patients move away from walking aids as balance improves.
Week
6 - 12
Functional Rehabilitation
We introduce balance training and controlled loading. Low-impact exercise, such as cycling, may begin here.
Month
3 - 9
Return to Most Activities
Sport-specific drills start once you meet functional benchmarks. Returning to pivoting sports is based on your knee's performance rather than just the date on the calendar.
* Timelines vary based on graft type and individual healing rates.
Risks & Complications
As with any surgical procedure, ACL reconstruction carries risks. While complications are uncommon, transparency is vital for informed consent.
Frequently Asked Questions
TAKE THE NEXT STEP
Focused care for your active lifestyle.
Consulting at sportsmed Stepney & Henley Beach · A GP referral is required.