What You Need To Know About Ligament Reconstruction

If you have ever suffered from a sprained ankle, then you have experienced a ligament injury. If you have a ligament tear or the damage is severe over time, your doctor may recommend ligament reconstruction. 

Raleigh Orthopaedic Surgery Center has an experienced team of orthopedic surgeons in Raleigh who can assess ligament reconstruction needs. If you have had a ligament injury, it is important to be informed about your options. 

What Is a Ligament? 

A ligament is a tissue that connects bone to bone. Sometimes people are unsure of the difference between a ligament and a tendon. In comparison, a tendon is a tissue that connects muscle to bone. 

Ligaments are yellow fibrous connective tissue found in joints. You have ligaments in several joints:

• Knees
• Ankles
• Elbows
• Shoulders

Damage to ligaments results in instability around the joint. Most commonly, ligament injuries are the result of sports. Sports where there is stopping and starting, such as skiing, gymnastics, or football, are more likely to injure a ligament. An ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) repair is a common ligament reconstruction surgery. 

Ligaments can also be damaged as a result of accidents or wear and tear. If left untreated, ligament damage can lead to chronic instability and osteoarthritis. Ligament reconstruction is recommended when ligaments are too weak or damaged to repair. 

What is Ligament Reconstruction? 

With ligament reconstruction surgery, a harvested tendon replaces the damaged ligament. The tendon may be your own or from a deceased donor. Ligament reconstruction is typically an outpatient procedure performed by an orthopedic surgeon. 

The surgeon makes small incisions around the joint to make the repair. 

What Should I be Aware of After Ligament Reconstruction? 

As with all surgeries, there are risks involved. Concerns with ligament reconstruction include: 

• Bleeding and infection at the surgical site
• Pain or stiffness in the joint
• Issues with graft healing or graft failure

Success in healing is greatly improved by following pre- and post-surgical recommendations. 

Your team will work with you to address mobility before you go home. You may leave with a brace or crutches to help you walk. 

The doctor will explain what you can do to reduce swelling and control pain. Elevation, ice, and rest are crucial for successful healing. Medications are recommended and prescribed to help with pain control. 

Do not be too quick to bear weight on the repaired area. Follow doctor recommendations for when it is safe to increase activity. Be okay with having assistance for a while as you heal. 

Physical therapy after surgery will help strengthen the muscles around the surgical repair as well as increase flexibility. Follow all recommendations of your therapist to have the best outcome after surgery. By following your plan of care, you’ll be able to return to sport or activities of daily living with success. 

Contact Our Orthopedic Surgery Center in NC for More Information

Raleigh Orthopaedic Surgery Center is both the largest and most modern ambulatory surgery facility in Eastern North Carolina to specialize exclusively in orthopaedics. Our patients receive outstanding patient satisfaction, superior clinical outcomes and reduced costs. Call Raleigh Orthopaedic Surgery Center at 919-719-3070 for more information.

The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.