ACL Surgery Clinic in Dubai at Emirates Hospitals Group. The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) plays a vital role in stabilizing the knee joint. An ACL injury, often occurring during sports activities, can significantly impact your mobility and athletic performance. Our ACL Surgery Clinic stands out with its team of some of the best orthopedic surgeons in Dubai, having UK and German board-certifications. This ensures that our patients receive the highest quality care and the most effective treatments for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries, enabling them to return to their active lifestyles with confidence.
The ACL Surgery Clinic at Emirates Hospitals Group offers comprehensive care for ACL injuries, from initial diagnosis to complete recovery. Our clinic is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and staffed by highly skilled professionals dedicated to providing personalized treatment plans. We cater to athletes, active individuals, and anyone suffering from ACL injuries, ensuring that each patient receives the best possible care.
Understanding ACL Injuries
The ACL is a strong band of tissue located in the center of the knee joint, connecting the thighbone (femur) to the shinbone (tibia) and preventing excessive forward movement of the shinbone. ACL injuries typically occur during sudden twisting motions or forceful landings, often seen in sports like football or basketball.
Symptoms of an ACL Injury
The severity of an ACL tear determines the intensity of your symptoms. Here’s what to watch out for:
- Sudden, severe pain: A popping or snapping sound may accompany the pain, and the knee may give way immediately after the injury.
- Swelling: Significant swelling of the knee joint occurs rapidly due to internal bleeding.
- Instability: The knee feels unstable, especially when trying to bear weight or change direction.
- Loss of range of motion: Difficulty bending or straightening the knee fully is a common symptom.
When to Seek Medical Attention at the ACL Injury Clinic
While some mild ACL sprains may exhibit minimal symptoms and potential for healing on their own, some situations require immediate medical attention from the ACL Injury Clinic at Emirates Hospitals Group:
- Severe pain and instability: If the pain is unbearable and the knee feels like it will give way, a doctor’s evaluation is crucial.
- Significant swelling: Excessive swelling within a few hours of the injury indicates internal bleeding and requires medical attention.
- Inability to bear weight: Difficulty putting any weight on the injured knee necessitates a doctor’s visit.
- Loss of full range of motion: If you cannot fully bend or straighten your knee, you need a doctor’s evaluation.
Diagnosis of ACL Injuries
Our experienced doctors at the ACL Injury Clinic will conduct a thorough evaluation to diagnose an ACL tear. This typically involves:
- Detailed Medical History: Your doctor will inquire about the mechanism of your injury, your activity level, and any history of knee injuries.
- Physical Examination: The doctor will assess your knee for swelling, tenderness, range of motion, and stability. Specific tests will be performed to check for abnormal laxity (looseness) in the knee joint, a hallmark of ACL injury.
- Imaging Tests: X-rays are usually used to rule out bone fractures. An MRI scan is the gold standard for diagnosing ACL tears, providing detailed images of the ligament and surrounding structures.
Procedure for ACL Treatment
Non-Surgical Treatments
- Physical Therapy: Customized programs aimed at strengthening the muscles around the knee, improving flexibility, and enhancing joint stability.
- Bracing: The use of knee braces to provide support and prevent further injury during the healing process.
- Medications: Anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and swelling.
Surgical Treatments
- Arthroscopic ACL Reconstruction: A minimally invasive procedure where a small camera (arthroscope) and instruments are inserted into the knee joint to reconstruct the torn ACL using grafts from the patient’s own body (autograft) or a donor (allograft).
- Meniscus Repair: In cases where the ACL injury is accompanied by a meniscus tear, the damaged meniscus can be repaired or partially removed during the same surgical procedure.
Recovery Process and Protocols after ACL Reconstruction
Recovery from ACL reconstruction surgery is a gradual process that requires dedication and commitment. The ACL Injury Clinic at Emirates Hospitals Group will guide you through every step:
- Immobilization: A brace may be needed initially to restrict knee movement and promote healing.
- Crutch Use: For some time, crutches may be necessary to limit weight bearing on the knee during the initial healing phase.
- Physical Therapy: Rehabilitation plays a crucial role in regaining strength, flexibility, and stability in the knee. A dedicated physical therapist will design a personalized exercise program starting with gentle motion exercises and progressing to more demanding activities as your recovery progresses.
- Gradual Return to Activity: Our team will guide you through a safe and gradual return to your regular activities, ensuring your knee is strong enough to handle the demands. Full recovery from ACL reconstruction surgery can take 6-12 months or even longer, depending on the severity of the injury and your individual progress.
Frequently Asked Questions
An ACL injury involves a tear or sprain of the anterior cruciate ligament, one of the key ligaments that help stabilize the knee joint. It commonly occurs during sports activities that involve sudden stops, jumps, or changes in direction, such as soccer, basketball, and skiing. It can also happen due to direct trauma to the knee.
Diagnosis begins with a detailed medical history and physical examination, where specific tests such as the Lachman test and anterior drawer test are performed to assess knee stability. Advanced imaging techniques, including MRI and X-rays, provide detailed views of the knee’s internal structures to confirm the extent of the ACL injury and identify any associated damage.
Treatment options include both non-surgical and surgical approaches. Non-surgical treatments involve physical therapy, bracing, and anti-inflammatory medications. Surgical treatment typically involves arthroscopic ACL reconstruction, where a torn ACL is repaired using grafts from the patient’s own body or a donor. The choice of treatment depends on the severity of the injury and the patient’s activity level and goals.
Preventing a recurrence of an ACL injury involves maintaining a regular exercise routine that includes strength training, flexibility exercises, and balance drills. It is also crucial to use proper techniques in sports and daily activities, wear appropriate footwear, and avoid sudden, high-impact movements that could stress the knee. Ongoing physical therapy and adherence to recommended rehabilitation protocols are essential for maintaining knee health and preventing future injuries.
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