Ligament Surgery

Ligament surgery is a procedure performed to repair or reconstruct a torn or damaged ligament. Ligaments are strong, fibrous tissues that connect bones to each other and provide stability to joints. When a ligament is torn, it can cause pain, instability, and difficulty moving the joint.

Reasons for ligament surgery:

Ligament surgery is not always necessary for a torn ligament. In many cases, non-surgical treatments like rest, icing, compression, and physical therapy can promote healing. However, surgery may be considered if:

• The tear is severe and involves a complete rupture of the ligament.
• The tear is causing significant instability in the joint, leading to problems with walking, running, or other activities.
• Non-surgical treatments haven't been successful in alleviating pain and improving function.

Types of ligament surgery:

The type of ligament surgery performed will depend on the specific ligament involved, the severity of the tear, and the patient's individual condition. Here are some common approaches:

• Arthroscopic surgery: This is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a small camera and specialized instruments inserted through tiny incisions to visualize the ligament and perform repairs. Arthroscopy is often used for ligament tears in the knee, shoulder, and ankle.

• Open surgery: In some cases, a larger incision may be necessary to access and repair the ligament. This is typically done for more complex tears or when arthroscopic techniques are not suitable.

• Ligament repair: If possible, the surgeon will attempt to reattach the torn ends of the ligament using sutures or anchors.
• Ligament reconstruction: If the ligament is too damaged to be repaired, the surgeon may use a graft to reconstruct it. The graft can be tissue taken from another part of the patient's body (autograft) or from a donor (allograft).

Recovery from ligament surgery:

The recovery time from ligament surgery can vary depending on the type of procedure performed, the severity of the injury, and the patient's individual healing process. In general, ligament surgery often involves immobilization of the joint for a period of time using a cast, brace, or splint, followed by physical therapy to regain strength, flexibility, and range of motion. It can take several weeks or months to return to normal activities.

Risks and complications of ligament surgery:

As with any surgery, there are risks and complications associated with ligament surgery, such as:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Blood clots
• Nerve damage
• Stiffness in the joint
• Failure of the repair or reconstruction

• If you suspect you have a torn ligament, it's important to see a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Our Specialist can advise you on the best course of action, whether it's non-surgical management or surgery, to get you back to your activities.