Arthroscopic & Ligament Surgery: ACL PCL and Meniscus Treatment

Arthroscopic and ligament surgery treats knee, shoulder and ankle injuries through minimally invasive techniques. Treatment options include ACL/PCL reconstruction, meniscus repair and SLAP lesion repair, based on the patient's injury and joint condition.

What Is Arthroscopic Surgery?

Arthroscopic surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that allows an orthopaedic surgeon to examine and treat problems inside a joint using a small camera called an arthroscope and specialised instruments.

The surgeon then makes tiny cuts in order to reach the target zone. This approach is commonly used for selected knee, shoulder and ankle conditions. The appropriate procedure depends on the type of injury, its severity and the patient's functional requirements.

Arthroscopic and Ligament Surgery Treatments

Dr. Intekhab Alam provides orthopaedic care for ligament and joint injuries. Treatment options may include the following procedures, depending on clinical assessment.

1. ACL Reconstruction

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) helps stabilise the knee during walking, running, jumping and turning. A torn ACL results in pain, swelling and knee instability.

ACL reconstruction replaces the damaged ligament with a graft to help restore knee stability. The surgeon determines the appropriate graft and surgical approach based on the patient's condition and activity requirements.

2. PCL Reconstruction

The posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) helps prevent the shinbone from moving too far backwards. A PCL injury may occur following a direct blow to the knee or a significant accident.

PCL reconstruction may be considered for selected patients with significant ligament damage and persistent knee instability.

3. ACL Reconstruction with Artificial (Jewel) Graft

ACL reconstruction may involve different graft options. An artificial graft, referred to here as a Jewel graft, is another option that may be discussed during treatment planning.

Graft selection depends on the injury, patient requirements and the surgeon's clinical assessment. Patients should discuss the benefits, limitations and suitability of each option before surgery.

4. Meniscus Repair

The meniscus is a pair of C-shaped pieces of cartilage in the knee that help absorb shock, distribute load and support joint stability 

The symptoms of a torn meniscus are knee pain, swelling, stiffness, or locking sensation. When the tear pattern and tissue condition allow, arthroscopic meniscus repair may help preserve the damaged tissue.

5. SLAP Lesion Repair

A SLAP lesion is an injury to the upper part of the shoulder's labrum, where the biceps tendon attaches. It can cause shoulder pain, clicking and difficulty with certain overhead movements.

Arthroscopic SLAP lesion repair may be considered after assessing the injury, symptoms and response to non-surgical treatment.

6. Multiligament Repair

Some serious knee injuries affect more than one ligament. These injuries may cause considerable instability and require a detailed clinical assessment.

Multiligament repair or reconstruction depends on which ligaments are damaged, the extent of the injury and the patient's overall knee condition.

Keyhole Surgery and Recovery

Arthroscopic procedures are commonly called keyhole surgeries because surgeons use small incisions to access the joint. Although the technique involves smaller incisions, it does not mean that every procedure is scar-free or that recovery is immediate.

Recovery after arthroscopic surgery depends on the type of surgery, the extent of tissue damage and the patient's rehabilitation progress.

Selected procedures may allow same-day discharge, while others require hospital observation. The treating surgeon determines discharge timing and post-operative care according to the patient's condition.

Returning to Sports and Physical Activities

Returning to sports after ligament or meniscus surgery requires a planned rehabilitation programme. Recovery may involve:

• Managing pain and swelling.

• Restoring joint movement.

• Improving muscle strength.

• Developing balance and coordination.

• Gradually increasing physical activity.

• Completing functional assessments before returning to sports.

Athletes should not return to competitive activities only because their pain has reduced. The surgeon and rehabilitation team should assess knee or shoulder function before approving a return to sport.

Consult Dr. Intekhab Alam for Arthroscopic and Ligament Surgery

Dr. Intekhab Alam is an Orthopaedic and Joint Replacement Surgeon in Lucknow. Patients experiencing knee instability, ligament injuries, meniscus problems or shoulder pain can seek an orthopaedic assessment to understand their condition and discuss suitable treatment options.

At Fast Track Orthocare, patients can discuss their symptoms, diagnostic reports and possible surgical or non-surgical treatment pathways.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What Injuries Can Arthroscopic Surgery Treat?

Arthroscopic surgery may treat selected ACL and PCL injuries, meniscus tears, SLAP lesions and other joint conditions involving the knee, shoulder or ankle.

2. What Is an ACL Reconstruction with an Artificial Jewel Graft?

ACL reconstruction technique where an artificial ligament graft is used. The appropriateness of this technique is dependent on the nature of the injury and clinical needs.

3. Can a Meniscus Tear Be Repaired Through Arthroscopy?

Some meniscus tears can be repaired arthroscopically. The decision depends on the tear's location, pattern, tissue quality and other clinical factors.

4. Can I Return to Sports After ACL Reconstruction?

Many patients can work towards returning to sports after ACL reconstruction. Recovery time depends on healing, muscle strength, knee stability and rehabilitation progress. Medical clearance is essential before returning to competitive sports.

5. Is Same-Day Discharge Possible After Ligament Surgery?

Same-day discharge may be possible after selected ligament surgeries. It depends on the procedure, anaesthesia recovery and the patient's overall health. The treating surgeon decides when discharge is appropriate.