Knee - ACL Tear and Arthroscopic Reconstruction

Tear of the ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) in the knee is among the most common knee injuries, especially among physically active people and athletes, and one which can be successfully treated via Arthroscopic ACL Knee Reconstruction surgery.

How does someone injure the ACL?

The ACL is a ligament that connects the tibia (leg) to the femur (thigh) and one which is frequently injured in contact sports such as football, soccer, basketball, and skiing - although there are many scenarios for injury to this ligament, such as accidents in the home, in the workplace, and automobile accidents. ACL injuries among athletes tend to be more common in women - such as a female soccer player who suddenly changes direction and feels a pop in her knee. In contact sports, such as football, the injury typically occurs when another player impacts the side of the knee. Often people will complain of hearing a loud "pop", which is the sound of the actual ligament tearing.

What happens after the injury?

The initial symptoms are pain and fairly immediate swelling. This can cause acute pain to the knee and the inability to walk right after the accident. After the pain and swelling subside, people often complain of episodes of instability, or "giving-way" and of the knee feeling loose. For some this will be a minor nuisance; for others, it will be a significant disability.

In such cases, patients may undergo Arthroscopic ACL Knee Reconstruction surgery. This minimally invasive procedure is used to graft tendons, usually from the patient's own body, to reconstruct the ACL Ligament. Recovery times after surgery, which vary by patient, are typically short and rarely require hospitalization – a patient can typically have the surgery in the morning and go home the same day. Following healing and recovery, and after appropriate therapy and rehabilitation, most patients will be able to resume normal activities, including sports.

Dr. Manouel has been performing Arthroscopic ACL Knee Reconstruction surgery successfully for over 20 years on patients of all ages, and applies his extensive knowledge of Sports Medicine to treat athletes using this technique.

You may schedule an appointment for an initial consultation with Dr. Manouel for your knee or any other sports related injury by calling Able Orthopedic & Sports Medicine at 718.897.2228

Meniscus Tear and Repair

A torn meniscus is a common injury often caused by forcefully twisting or rotating the knee. It can also be a result of degenerative changes in older adults. A meniscus tear can be repaired through arthroscopic surgery.

How does a meniscus tear happen?

The menisci are C-shaped pieces of tough cartilage that rest on either side of the knee, between the thigh bone and shin bone. They help to distribute body weight across the knee so it can be properly supported by the bones in the leg, and also provide stability to the knee joint. A meniscus tear is common after a traumatic injury, and most frequently occurs when the knee joint is bent and the knee is then twisted. Torn menisci are common in athletes and older adults whose cartilage may have worn away.

A torn meniscus causes pain and swelling, and may also be accompanied by a frequently locking joint and the inability to completely straighten the knee. Some people experience a popping or clicking sensation within the knee as well.

How is a meniscus tear treated?

Treatment for a meniscus tear often begins with conservative methods such as rest, ice or over-the-counter medication. If these treatments are not effective and symptoms continue, you may benefit from meniscus repair surgery. Meniscus repair is an arthroscopic procedure in which the torn segment of the meniscus is removed and the torn edges are sutured together, which allows them to heal properly.

Most patients recover well from this procedure and are able to return to their normal activities. Dr. Manouel is highly trained and experienced in performing meniscus repair procedures, and utilizes his knowledge of sports medicine to help his active patients achieve a full recovery.

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