Specialized ACL Treatment in SingaporeACL Reconstruction Surgery & Recovery

For a complete ACL tear, surgical reconstruction using a graft is often the preferred treatment to restore knee stability and function. These grafts can be autografts (taken from your own body, typically from the patellar tendon, hamstring tendon, or quadriceps tendon) or allografts (from a donor). Dr. Sean Leo specializes in advanced ACL reconstruction techniques utilizing various graft options that promote optimal healing and recovery.

Non-surgical options, including bracing and physical therapy, may be considered for partial tears or less active individuals. The appropriate treatment plan depends on factors such as injury severity, activity level, age, and overall health.

A comprehensive assessment by an experienced orthopaedic knee specialist can determine the most suitable treatment approach and graft selection for your specific ACL injury.

ACL tears typically do not heal on their own due to their position within the knee and the interference of synovial fluid, which fills the knee joint and hampers the natural healing process of the ligament.

For individuals with a complete ACL tear, especially those engaged in sports or active lifestyles, surgical intervention is often recommended. Factors that indicate surgery may be necessary include:

• Complete ACL tear confirmed by MRI
• Significant knee instability during daily activities
• Desire to return to sports or demanding physical activities
• Young age and active lifestyle
• Multiple ligament injuries

Early consultation with a knee specialist allows for timely intervention and optimal recovery outcomes.

ACL reconstruction recovery typically takes 6 to 9 months, with a full return to sports often requiring 9 to 12 months, depending on individual factors, sport type, and rehabilitation progress.

The recovery journey includes several phases:

Initial phase (0-2 weeks)
Pain management, swelling reduction, basic mobility.

Early rehabilitation (2-6 weeks)
Improving range of motion, beginning strength exercises.

Intermediate phase (6-12 weeks)
Progressive strengthening, improving balance.

Functional rehabilitation (3-6 months)
Functional treatment aims at getting you back to doing gentle physical activities eg. Brisk walk and jogging or cycling.

Advanced Rehabilitation (6-9 months)
Focusing on strength  and agility training incorporating  dynamic movements (eg. Jumps and quick direction changes like running around cones).

Return to Sports (9-12 months)
To engage in sports specific drills which condition the body as a whole for gradual return to full sports participation. Eg. Dribbling drills for soccer, footwork drills for courtgames like badminton or tennis.

ACL reconstruction surgery is generally successful, with reported success rates of 80% to 90%. Modern surgical techniques have significantly improved outcomes for patients undergoing ACL reconstruction.

Key success indicators include:

• Restoration of knee stability
• Return to pre-injury activity levels
• Prevention of further knee damage
• Improvement in quality of life

As with any surgical procedure, there is a possibility of complications, and some patients may require revision procedures. Factors affecting success include surgical technique, graft choice, patient compliance with rehabilitation, and individual healing capacity.

Regular follow-up with your orthopaedic surgeon throughout recovery helps ensure optimal outcomes.

The cost of procedure varies based on the complexity of the surgery to be performed and individual insurance panel specifications. These will be discussed with you by Dr Sean’s clinic staff after the consultation should you with to proceed with surgery. The clinic staff are experienced in assisting with applications for letter of guarantees from various insurance panels and corporate insurance panels. 

Cost factors include:

• Surgical technique and complexity
• Type of graft used
• Hospital or day surgery center fees
• Anaesthesia services
• Pre-operative assessments
• Post-operative rehabilitation

Patients should consider checking insurance coverage for ACL reconstruction surgery. Many insurance plans provide coverage for this procedure when medically necessary.

Financial counseling services are available to discuss payment options and potential insurance coverage for your specific situation.