If you’ve injured your knee and heard the words “ACL tear,” you may feel scared, confused, or even frustrated. Don’t worry—you’re not alone. ACL injuries are common, especially in people who play sports or lead active lifestyles. But the good news is that treatment is available, and many people return to their normal life after surgery.
In this article, Dr. Marouane Bouloudhnine, a trusted orthopedic surgeon in dubai, explains everything you need to know about ACL reconstruction surgery in simple words. Whether you’ve just been diagnosed or are thinking about surgery, this guide will help you understand what to expect, how to prepare, and how to recover successfully.
What Is the ACL?
The ACL stands for Anterior Cruciate Ligament. It’s one of the main ligaments inside your knee that helps keep the joint stable. It connects the thigh bone (femur) to the shinbone (tibia) and keeps your knee from moving too much forward or twisting in a bad way.
When the ACL tears, your knee can feel weak or unstable. You might feel pain, swelling, or even hear a “pop” when it happens. Most people tear their ACL while playing sports like football, basketball, skiing, or even from a sudden fall.
Do All ACL Tears Need Surgery?
Not all ACL tears require surgery. Some people—especially those who are older or less active—can live without an ACL and manage with physical therapy and a knee brace.
But if you are young, active, or want to return to sports, your orthopedic surgeon may recommend ACL reconstruction surgery to restore stability and prevent further damage to the knee.
What Is ACL Reconstruction?
ACL reconstruction is a type of knee surgery where the torn ACL is replaced with a new tissue called a graft. This graft acts like a new ligament and helps your knee become stable again.
The surgery is usually done using arthroscopy, which is a minimally invasive technique. That means the surgeon makes small cuts and uses a tiny camera to perform the surgery. This results in less pain, smaller scars, and a faster recovery compared to open surgery.
Types of Grafts Used
Your orthopedic surgeon will choose a graft that works best for you. There are three main types:
Autograft: Tissue taken from your own body (like from the hamstring or patellar tendon).
Allograft: Tissue taken from a donor (a person who has passed away).
Synthetic graft: Rarely used and made of artificial materials.
Each option has its benefits and risks. Dr. Marouane Bouloudhnine will explain which one is best for your situation.
Preparing for ACL Surgery
Before surgery, your doctor will do a full check-up. You may need:
X-rays or MRI scans to see the extent of the damage.
Blood tests to make sure you're healthy enough for surgery.
Pre-surgery physical therapy to reduce swelling and strengthen the muscles around your knee.
It’s also important to stop smoking and talk to your doctor about any medications you're taking.
What Happens During the Surgery?
ACL reconstruction usually takes 1 to 2 hours. You’ll be under anesthesia, so you won’t feel anything during the surgery.
Here’s a step-by-step look:
Tiny incisions are made around the knee.
A small camera (arthroscope) is inserted to view the knee joint.
The torn ACL is removed.
The chosen graft is prepared and placed in the same position as the original ACL.
Screws or other devices are used to hold the graft in place.
The cuts are closed with stitches, and a bandage is applied.
Most patients go home the same day, but some may need to stay overnight.
What to Expect After Surgery
Recovery starts immediately after surgery. You’ll wake up with a bandage on your knee, and it may feel stiff or sore.
Here’s what usually happens after ACL surgery:
Pain and swelling are normal for a few days. Your doctor will give you medicine to help.
You’ll need crutches to walk for the first couple of weeks.
You’ll wear a knee brace to protect the new ligament.
Physical therapy starts soon to help you regain strength and movement.
Dr. Marouane Bouloudhnine will give you a personalized recovery plan to follow step by step.
Recovery Timeline
Every person heals at their own pace, but here’s a general idea:
| Time After Surgery | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Week 1–2 | Swelling reduces; walking with crutches |
| Week 3–6 | Start physical therapy exercises |
| Month 2–3 | Improved knee strength and range of motion |
| Month 4–6 | Return to light jogging and activities |
| Month 6–9 | Return to sports (with surgeon’s approval) |
It’s important to not rush. Healing takes time, and pushing too hard can cause setbacks.
Benefits of ACL Reconstruction
Getting ACL reconstruction surgery can offer several benefits:
Regain stability in your knee
Prevent further injuries to other parts of the knee
Return to sports or active lifestyle
Improve your confidence and mobility
Avoid long-term problems like arthritis
Many athletes go back to their sports with full strength after proper rehab and care.
Possible Risks and Complications
Like any surgery, ACL reconstruction has some risks, but serious problems are rare.
Possible risks include:
Infection
Blood clots
Knee stiffness
Graft failure
Pain around the knee cap
Reaction to anesthesia
Dr. Marouane Bouloudhnine takes all the necessary steps to reduce these risks and ensures you are safe before, during, and after surgery.
Tips for a Successful Recovery
Here are some simple but important tips for healing well after your ACL surgery:
Follow your physical therapy program strictly.
Take your medicines as advised by your doctor.
Keep your leg elevated to reduce swelling.
Use ice packs to control pain and inflammation.
Don’t skip appointments with your surgeon or therapist.
Avoid risky movements or sports until fully cleared.
Stay positive and patient—healing takes time!
When Should You See an Orthopedic Surgeon?
If you have any of the following symptoms after a knee injury, you should see an orthopedic doctor:
Sudden pain or swelling
Knee giving out while walking
Feeling of instability
Trouble bending or straightening the knee
You heard or felt a pop at the time of injury
Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent more damage and help you recover faster.
Why Choose Dr. Marouane Bouloudhnine in Dubai?
Dr. Marouane Bouloudhnine is a highly experienced orthopedic surgeon based in Dubai. He specializes in knee surgeries, including ACL reconstruction, and is known for his gentle approach and modern techniques.
With years of experience and hundreds of successful surgeries, he offers:
Accurate diagnosis using advanced imaging
Minimally invasive surgical techniques
Personalized recovery programs
Supportive and friendly care
Excellent patient results
Whether you’re a professional athlete or just someone who wants to walk pain-free again, Dr. Marouane is here to help you every step of the way.
Final Words
An ACL injury can feel like a big setback, but with the right care, recovery is very possible. ACL reconstruction is a safe and effective surgery that can help you return to your active lifestyle.
If you live in Dubai and are dealing with an ACL tear or knee injury, book a consultation with Dr. Marouane Bouloudhnine today. You’ll get the expert care and support you need for a strong and successful recovery.