Arthroscopic Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Surgery

Arthroscopic Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Surgery

Arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) surgery is an effective and safe treatment option for patients with knee problems, particularly in cases involving ACL tears or meniscal injuries.
This minimally invasive technique allows physicians to accurately diagnose and repair damaged structures within the knee joint while promoting faster recovery and reducing surgical risks.

Arthroscopic Knee Ligament Surgery: How the Technique Works

Arthroscopic knee ligament surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that utilizes a small camera called an arthroscope, which is inserted into the knee joint through a small incision of approximately 2–3 centimeters. This allows surgeons to clearly visualize and treat internal knee structures with high precision.

Surgical Procedure

Preoperative Preparation

Patients are required to undergo a physical examination and provide a complete medical history. Fasting from food and water for at least 6 hours prior to surgery is necessary.

Anesthesia

General anesthesia or spinal anesthesia is administered to ensure the patient experiences no pain during the procedure.

Incision

Small incisions are made to insert the arthroscope and specialized surgical instruments.

Ligament Repair

If an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear is identified, the surgeon will reconstruct the ligament using a graft from another part of the patient’s body or from a donor.

Who Is Suitable for Arthroscopic Knee Ligament Surgery?

• Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Tears
  Suitable for patients with ACL injuries causing knee instability, particularly athletes or individuals with heavy knee usage.

• Meniscus Tears
  Recommended for patients with meniscal injuries presenting with knee pain and swelling.

• Chronic Knee Pain
  Patients experiencing chronic knee pain due to degenerative joint conditions or other movement-limiting issues.

• Elderly Patients
  Older adults with mild to moderate knee injuries who do not engage in high-impact activities.

• Patients Seeking Faster Recovery
  The minimally invasive nature of arthroscopic surgery allows quicker recovery and a faster return to daily activities.

• Patients Unresponsive to Non-Surgical Treatment
  For those who do not improve with conservative treatments, arthroscopic surgery may be an effective alternative.

Advantages of Arthroscopic Surgery

• Small Incisions
  Less postoperative pain compared to traditional open surgery.

• Faster Recovery
  Most patients require only 1–2 days of hospitalization before resuming daily activities.

• Lower Risk of Infection
  Smaller wounds significantly reduce the risk of postoperative infection.

Conclusion

Arthroscopic knee ligament surgery is an effective treatment option for patients with knee disorders, especially those requiring ligament or meniscal repair. This technique significantly reduces postoperative pain and recovery time, enabling patients to return to normal life more quickly and confidently.

The Orthopedic Center at Bangkok Hospital Rayong, supported by highly experienced orthopedic surgeons and a multidisciplinary medical team, provides comprehensive surgical care programs that minimize complications, reduce pain, promote rapid recovery, and help patients regain confidence in their daily lives.

Dr. Kobpong Jitraeuaareekul
Orthopedic Surgeon, Hip and Knee Center
Bangkok Hospital Rayong