What Is ACL Reconstruction Knee Surgery?
ACL reconstruction replaces a damaged and torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). The ACL connects the front top of the tibia (the lower leg bone), to the rear bottom of the femur (the thigh bone).
Step-by-Step: How ACL Reconstruction Is Performed
Incision made
An incision is made over the front of the knee to expose the patella (kneecap), and the patellar ligament, which holds the patella in place.
Autograft cut
A strip from the patellar ligament and tibia is removed. This section, called an autograph, will be used as a replacement for the damaged ACL.
Arthroscope inserted
The incision is closed. The rest of the ACL reconstruction will be performed with arthroscopic ACL surgery, through small cuts on the sides of the knee. The surgeon uses a small video camera called an arthroscope to see inside the knee and make sure the new ACL is positioned correctly.
ACL removed
With the knee bent, the damaged and torn ACL is cleared away.
Guide pin inserted
A pin is inserted diagonally, from the tibia to the femur. The surgeon will use the pin as a guide to recreate the ACL.
Holes drilled
Using the pin as a guide, the surgeon drills holes in the tibia and femur.
Autograft attached
The autograft is attached to the guide pin. It is pulled through the holes and into place.
End of ACL reconstruction surgery
Special screws secure the bony ends of the autograft to the femur and tibia. The knee is flexed to test the new joint.
ACL Reconstruction Recovery on Staten Island
Recovery from ACL reconstruction is a gradual process that unfolds over several months. Most patients begin with a period of rest, bracing, and limited weight-bearing, followed by a structured physical therapy program to rebuild strength, flexibility, and stability in the knee.
Early rehabilitation focuses on restoring range of motion, while later stages introduce balance training and sport-specific movement to prepare for a safe return to activity. Full recovery, including return to high-impact sports, typically takes six to nine months, depending on the graft type used and how closely the rehabilitation plan is followed. Dr. Armin Tehrany works closely with each patient throughout this process to monitor healing and adjust the recovery plan as needed.
Schedule Your ACL Reconstruction Consultation
If you’ve suffered an ACL injury and are considering reconstruction surgery, Dr. Armin Tehrany offers advanced, minimally invasive techniques to restore knee stability and get you back to the activities you love. Schedule a consultation today at our Staten Island or Manhattan office.
