ACL reconstruction surgery is primarily performed to treat a torn ACL. The main goal of the procedure is to restore stability to the knee joint and allow a patient to return to their previous level of function, including sports and other physical activities. A torn ACL often causes symptoms of instability, where the knee feels like it is buckling or giving way during twisting or pivoting movements. This can make it difficult to participate in sports, perform certain job duties, or even navigate daily life with confidence.

By rebuilding the ligament, ACL repair surgery effectively eliminates this instability. This not only allows for a return to an active lifestyle but also helps protect the knee from further damage. An unstable knee is at a higher risk of developing additional injuries, such as meniscus tears or damage to the articular cartilage, which can lead to early-onset arthritis. Therefore, for many patients, ACL reconstruction is a vital step in preserving the long-term health of the knee joint. Dr. Parentis is an ACL injury specialist who can help you decide if this surgery is your best option.

Your first appointment at Buffalo Orthopedics will likely be a one-on-one consultation with Dr. Parentis. This visit is dedicated to understanding you and your injury. Dr. Parentis will begin by listening to how the injury occurred, what symptoms you are experiencing, and what your goals are for recovery. He will then conduct a thorough physical examination of your knee, performing specific tests to assess the stability of the ACL and check for any other associated injuries.

To confirm the diagnosis and get a clear picture of the joint, imaging tests like an X-ray or MRI will likely be reviewed. Once all the information is gathered, Dr. Parentis will sit down with you to explain the findings in easy-to-understand terms. He will discuss whether you are a candidate for ACL reconstruction surgery, explain the ACL surgery procedure in detail, and review alternative treatment options. This is your opportunity to ask any questions you have. At our practice, you build a real relationship with your doctor, ensuring you are a partner in your own healthcare decisions.

ACL reconstruction is a common and highly successful orthopedic procedure with a strong track record of safety, particularly when performed by a specialist with extensive experience like Dr. Parentis. His double fellowship training, including in sports medicine, provides him with the specialized skills needed to perform this surgery with precision and care. While all surgical procedures carry some inherent risks, the arthroscopic techniques used for most ACL reconstructions help to minimize them.

Potential risks, though infrequent, include infection, blood clots, knee stiffness, and issues with graft healing. Dr. Parentis will have a detailed discussion with you about these potential risks during your consultation to ensure you can make a fully informed decision. He takes every precaution in the operating room and provides a comprehensive post-operative plan to mitigate these risks and guide you toward a smooth and successful recovery. Our practice also manages Workers' Compensation and No-Fault cases, providing expert care for work-related injuries.

ACL reconstruction is fundamentally different from non-surgical treatment options because it physically rebuilds the torn ligament to restore mechanical stability to the knee. Non-surgical options, such as physical therapy and bracing, are often recommended for less active individuals or those with partial tears. These methods focus on strengthening the muscles around the knee (like the hamstrings and quadriceps) to help compensate for the missing ACL and improve dynamic stability. While this can be effective for some, it does not repair the ligament itself, and the knee may still be susceptible to giving way during more demanding activities.

For athletes or active individuals who wish to return to sports involving pivoting, cutting, or jumping, ACL reconstruction is often the only treatment that can reliably restore the necessary stability to do so safely. Dr. Parentis, as an experienced ACL surgery specialist, will carefully evaluate your activity level, lifestyle, and recovery goals to recommend the most appropriate path forward, whether it's a conservative approach or surgical intervention.

Recovery after ACL reconstruction surgery is a gradual process that requires commitment and patience, typically spanning several months. The timeline can vary based on the individual and the specifics of the surgery, but it follows a general progression. Immediately after surgery, the focus is on reducing swelling, managing pain, and protecting the new graft. You will use crutches and a knee brace to support the joint.

Physical therapy is essential and begins almost immediately. The initial phase focuses on regaining your full range of motion and "waking up" the muscles around the knee. As healing progresses over the following weeks and months, your therapy will shift toward strengthening exercises, followed by balance and proprioception training. Most patients can expect to return to jogging in a straight line around the 3-4 month mark. A full return to sports and unrestricted, high-impact activities typically takes anywhere from 6 to 12 months. Dr. Parentis will oversee your entire rehabilitation process, ensuring you meet key milestones safely before advancing to the next stage.