Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Injuries

Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) is the most fundamental ligament that provides stability to the knee joint. The posterior cruciate ligament and collateral ligaments are other ligaments that contribute to this stability. Among these ligaments, the ACL is the one most frequently injured during sports activities.

The ACL can tear when the foot is fixed on the ground, and the body undergoes a rotational movement at the knee. Sports that involve maneuvers, such as football, basketball, skiing, volleyball, pose a higher risk. It often detaches from its attachment point on the thigh bone (femur).

This type of injury can occur in individuals who engage in activities with high levels of rotational force, especially those with a high activity level. It is more commonly seen in women. In children, ACL tears often occur in conjunction with fractures.

When the ACL tears during knee joint activity, individuals may report hearing a loud pop from inside the knee. Bleeding occurs inside the knee joint due to the tear, leading to swelling. There is severe pain, and the range of motion in the knee is significantly restricted. Pain intensifies when weight is placed on the knee. As time passes, as the swelling reduces, the pain also decreases. In the early stages after the injury, as the swelling subsides, the movements begin to improve, but there may still be a sense of instability in the knee, a feeling of the knee giving way, or spontaneous knee rotation, especially if there is an associated meniscus tear.

After an ACL injury, the first step is to apply ample ice. Seek an orthopedic specialist as soon as possible. If deemed necessary by the doctor, a knee aspiration may be performed. Continue icing, and immobilization with a bandage may be applied. Rest is essential. After a definitive diagnosis is made through an MRI, a surgical treatment plan should be established.

When deciding on surgical treatment, the patient’s age, occupation, and complaints should be taken into consideration. Associated pathologies should be evaluated carefully with an MRI. In young individuals who are actively involved in sports, surgical treatment should be considered as the primary option. In older individuals, decisions should be made based on their daily activities.