Knee Ligament Surgery

Knee Ligament Surgery at CritiCare Asia Hospitals, Andheri East

Knee ligament surgery depends on which structure is damaged. ACL reconstruction treats the ligament most often torn when pivoting or changing direction suddenly, and a tendon graft is typically used. PCL reconstruction is less common, often follows a fall onto a bent knee, and relies on a similar graft-based method. Meniscus repair addresses the cartilage that cushions the joint, stitched back when the tear can heal and trimmed when it cannot. Because one injury frequently damages several structures, more than one may need attention in the same operation. CritiCare Asia Hospitals is an orthopaedic hospital in Mumbai where assessment is organised so that examination, imaging review and the surgical discussion fit into as few visits as possible. That matters when work and travel leave little room for repeated appointments. Knee ligament surgery in Andheri East is recommended only once the findings clearly support it.

When Surgery Becomes Necessary

A ligament injury does not always call for surgery. These signs usually raise the question:

The knee gives way, particularly on a change of direction
Swelling and pain persist well after the injury, especially after activity
Full bending or straightening is difficult
The knee locks or catches

Physiotherapy, bracing and anti-inflammatory medication are tried first. If instability continues, or imaging confirms a complete tear, surgery is the next step. Athletes and very active people are advised towards reconstruction earlier, as a safe return to sport usually depends on it. Our knee surgeons in Mumbai give a clear recommendation after examining the knee and reviewing the scans.

Recovery Timeline

Recovery follows stages, not one fixed timeline.

0 to 2 weeks
rest, ice, elevation and early movement to limit swelling
2 to 6 weeks
physiotherapy begins in earnest to restore range of motion
6 to 12 weeks
strengthening increases, often with cycling or similar low-impact work
3 to 6 months
light sport and normal activity usually resume, depending on progress
6 to 12 months
full recovery, with ongoing strength work to protect the knee

Returning to high-impact activity early is one of the commoner reasons for a setback. Most people also plan time away from work early on, so it is worth discussing this with your surgeon in advance.

Preparation Before the Day

Follow the fasting instructions from the night before and wear loose, comfortable clothing. Arrange a ride home and some help for the first several days, because stairs and long periods standing are difficult early on. If you smoke, stopping beforehand improves healing. Prehabilitation, which means building strength and flexibility around the knee before surgery, tends to make recovery smoother.

Risks and Considerations

Infection, blood clots, and post-operative stiffness are the more familiar risks, usually well managed with proper care and early movement. Occasionally the graft does not heal as expected and needs revision, or the knee remains unstable. Nerve irritation and reactions to anaesthesia are rarer. Your surgeon will discuss your own risk profile, including previous knee surgery or existing joint damage.

Treatment Options and How the Procedure Works

Your surgeon first reviews X-rays and an MRI with your history and activity level. Blood tests look for anything that might complicate surgery, and medicines, particularly blood thinners, are reviewed and adjusted.

Reconstruction is arthroscopic in most cases, with small incisions, a camera, and fine instruments. The torn ligament is removed, and a graft is anchored in bone tunnels. The graft usually comes from your own body, such as the hamstring, patellar or quadriceps tendon (autograft), or less commonly from a donor (allograft). Autografts carry a lower risk of rejection, while allografts avoid a second surgical site. Age, activity level, and the surgeon's assessment decide which suits you.

Once the anaesthesia wears off, pain management begins immediately. Crutches are used at first, weight-bearing is limited as instructed, and physiotherapy typically begins within the first week or two.