ORTHOPAEDIC · CONDITION GUIDE
ACL Tear
A complete or partial rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament inside the knee — commonly caused by sudden pivoting or landing — resulting in instability, swelling, and inability to continue activity.
ABOUT THIS CONDITION
What is ACL Tear?
The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the four major ligaments of the knee and plays a critical role in controlling rotational stability. An ACL tear is one of the most common and significant sports injuries, typically occurring when the knee is forced to twist or hyperextend — often during football, basketball, or any sport involving sudden direction changes. Patients often hear or feel a pop at the moment of injury, followed by rapid swelling and a sensation of the knee giving way. While some patients can manage with physiotherapy alone, most active individuals with a complete ACL tear require surgical reconstruction to restore full knee stability and return to sport safely. Dr. Sai Kishan Sirasala specialises in arthroscopic ACL reconstruction at Lux Hospitals, using the latest graft techniques for optimal outcomes.
SIGNS TO WATCH
Common Symptoms
Symptoms that need attention
WHY IT HAPPENS
Causes & Risk Factors
- Sudden change of direction or pivoting while the foot is planted
- Awkward landing from a jump with the knee in a vulnerable position
- Direct tackle or collision causing forced twisting of the knee
- Rapid deceleration while running leading to ligament overstretching
- Hyperextension of the knee beyond its normal range of motion
- Female athletes are at higher risk due to anatomical and hormonal factors
CLINICAL DETAILS
KeyFacts
Clinical examination, MRI scan, and Lachman/anterior drawer test
Arthroscopic ACL reconstruction using hamstring or patellar tendon graft
Minimally invasive arthroscopic keyhole surgery with small incisions
Return to daily activity in 6–8 weeks; return to sport in 6–9 months
Over 90% of patients return to full sport activity after ACL reconstruction
Available at Lux Hospitals, Hitech City, Hyderabad
HOW WE TREAT IT
Treatment Approach
Dr. Sai Kishan has dedicated fellowship training in arthroscopic ACL reconstruction from KIMS-Sunshine Hospitals and advanced knee surgery from Bologna, Italy. He uses anatomic graft placement techniques to restore natural knee mechanics and has successfully helped athletes return to competitive sport.
Dr. Sai Kishan uses anatomic graft placement techniques from his fellowship training to restore natural knee mechanics and help athletes return to competitive sport.
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Consultation & Assessment
Clinical examination, MRI scan, and special tests are used to confirm the ACL tear and assess any associated injuries such as meniscus or cartilage damage.
- 2
Treatment Planning
The appropriate graft type and surgical technique are chosen based on the patient's age, activity level, and any associated knee injuries.
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Surgical Procedure
Arthroscopic ACL reconstruction is performed using a tendon graft through tiny incisions. The torn ligament is replaced and the graft is fixed in an anatomic position.
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Rehabilitation & Recovery
A structured return-to-sport rehabilitation programme begins immediately after surgery. Full recovery and return to competitive sport is typically achieved within 6–9 months.
AVAILABLE TREATMENTS
Treatment Options
ACL Reconstruction (Arthroscopic)
Your torn ACL is rebuilt using a tendon graft inserted through small keyhole incisions — the most common and effective approach to restore full knee stability.
Revision ACL Reconstruction
If your original ACL repair has failed or the graft has torn again, this secondary procedure rebuilds the ligament with a new graft to restore full knee strength.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked
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