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Common ACL Surgery Complications and How to Avoid Them
Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) surgery is one of the most common procedures performed in Singapore to repair or reconstruct the ligament, especially among athletes and active individuals. While the surgery has a high success rate, like any surgical procedure, it can come with some risks and potential complications. Understanding these risks and knowing how to prevent them can improve your chances of a successful recovery.
Read on to know more!
What is ACL Surgery?
ACL surgery is a procedure designed to repair or reconstruct the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), one of the major ligaments in the knee. This ligament plays a crucial role in stabilising the knee, especially during activities that involve sudden stops, jumps, or changes in direction. When the ACL is torn, it can lead to knee instability, pain, and difficulty with daily activities or sports.
The surgery typically involves reconstructing the ligament using a graft, which may be taken from the patient’s own body (autograft) or from a donor (allograft). ACL reconstruction is commonly recommended for individuals who want to return to an active lifestyle, especially athletes.
While most patients experience a positive outcome, some may face post-surgical complications that can slow down recovery or affect long-term function. These complications can stem from various factors, including the surgical procedure itself, the body’s healing response, or inadequate post-surgery care.
Common Complications
Infection
Infection is one of the most feared complications after any surgery, including ACL reconstruction. Although relatively rare, infections can occur at the incision site or deep within the knee joint, causing pain, swelling, redness and fever. Severe infections may require additional surgery or a prolonged course of antibiotics to resolve.
Blood Clots
Blood clots, particularly deep vein thrombosis (DVT), can form after surgery due to limited mobility, which slows down blood circulation. If a blood clot travels to the lungs, it can cause a life-threatening condition known as a pulmonary embolism.
Knee Stiffness
Some patients may experience stiffness in the knee joint after ACL surgery, making it difficult to regain full range of motion. This is often due to post-operative swelling, scar tissue buildup, or inadequate rehabilitation. Knee stiffness can limit recovery and hinder athletic performance.
Graft Failure
Graft failure occurs when the newly reconstructed ACL does not heal properly, or the graft tears during recovery or after returning to physical activities. Graft failure may result in knee instability, necessitating revision surgery.
Persistent Pain
While some discomfort is expected after ACL surgery, persistent pain beyond the normal healing process may indicate an underlying problem, such as nerve damage, improper graft placement, or cartilage injury. Chronic pain can interfere with daily life and prolong recovery.
Preventive Measures
Pre-Surgery Precautions
Taking steps before surgery can help reduce the likelihood of complications. Preparing both physically and mentally can set the foundation for a smooth recovery.
- Get in shape: Pre-surgery conditioning can improve your overall fitness, making it easier for your body to recover. Strengthening the muscles around your knee may help protect the joint post-surgery.
- Follow pre-op instructions: Your doctor will provide specific pre-surgery guidelines, such as stopping certain medications, fasting before surgery, or avoiding smoking and alcohol. Following these closely can minimise the risk of complications.
- Plan your recovery space: Set up a comfortable space at home for your post-surgery recovery, with easy access to essentials like water, medications, and a supportive resting area.
Post-Surgery Care
Proper post-operative care is critical to avoiding complications and ensuring a smooth recovery.
- Wound care: Keep the surgical area clean and dry to prevent infection. Change dressings as instructed, and avoid touching the incision site unnecessarily.
- Pain management: Stay on top of your pain relief plan, using medications as prescribed and supplementing with non-drug therapies such as icing, rest, and elevation.
- Follow your doctor’s advice: Attend all follow-up appointments to monitor your healing progress. Notify your doctor immediately if you notice any signs of complications, such as excessive swelling, fever, or intense pain.
Rehabilitation Tips
Rehabilitation is essential for a successful ACL surgery recovery. A structured and gradual rehabilitation program can help restore mobility, strengthen the knee, and improve stability.
- Start early, but progress gradually: Your doctor will give you guidelines on when to start physical therapy. Early movement is important but don’t rush—progress at the pace recommended by your therapist.
- Commit to the rehab plan: Sticking to your rehabilitation schedule is crucial for long-term recovery. This includes range-of-motion exercises, strengthening routines and, eventually, sport-specific drills if you’re an athlete.
- Listen to your body: While it’s important to stay active, don’t ignore your body’s signals. If an exercise causes excessive pain or discomfort, adjust the routine with guidance from your therapist.
Get Help in Singapore for ACL Surgery and any Complications
At Spire Orthopaedic Centre, we understand that the thought of ACL surgery can be daunting, especially when considering potential complications. However, with the right surgeon, preparation, and post-surgery care, you can minimise risks and recover effectively.
If you’re concerned about ACL surgery or are experiencing complications from a previous surgery, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Our experienced team of orthopaedic specialists in Singapore will provide personalised care, answer your questions, and guide you through every step of the process. Whether you’re planning surgery or need advice on post-operative recovery, we’re here to help.