ACL & PCL Reconstruction Surgery in India

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) are two of the main stabilising ligaments inside the knee, controlling forward and backward movement of the shin bone relative to the thigh bone. A complete tear of either, common in sports involving sudden stops, pivots or direct impact, leaves the knee unstable, prone to buckling, and at higher risk of further damage such as meniscus tears or early arthritis if left untreated.

How the ligament is reconstructed

Because a torn ACL or PCL generally cannot be stitched back together, reconstruction replaces it with a tendon graft, taken either from the patient's own body (autograft, commonly the hamstring or patellar tendon) or from a donor (allograft). The procedure is done arthroscopically, using a camera and small instruments through a few small incisions, rather than a large open incision, which supports a faster recovery and less scarring.

ACL vs PCL vs combined reconstruction

ACL tears are considerably more common than PCL tears and are frequently seen in sports injuries. PCL tears more often result from direct impact to the front of the knee, such as in a fall or vehicle accident, and are sometimes accompanied by damage to other knee ligaments. In more complex injuries, a patient may need reconstruction of both ligaments, or additional ligaments, in the same or a staged surgery, which increases the surgical complexity and cost accordingly.

Who needs surgery vs who might not

Not every ACL or PCL tear needs surgery. Surgery is generally recommended for athletes, physically active individuals, and anyone with a complete tear who wants to return to demanding activity or prevent further joint damage. Some patients, particularly those with lower activity demands or partial tears, may be managed with physiotherapy and bracing instead. Your orthopaedic surgeon confirms the right approach based on your specific tear, activity level and goals.