In short
- Keyhole reconstruction for torn knee ligaments, when the knee keeps giving way.
- Treats: Complete and partial ACL tears; PCL and combined ligament injuries; Ligament tears with meniscus or cartilage damage.
- A video consultation is useful to review your MRI, discuss options or get a second opinion.
- Treated by Dr. Yash S. Shah, MBBS, MS (Orthopaedics), at Bodyline Hospital, Paldi, Ahmedabad.
ACL and PCL ligament reconstruction (arthroscopic)
Not every ligament tear needs an operation. The right plan depends on how unstable the knee feels, your age and the activities you want to return to.
Keyhole reconstruction for torn knee ligaments, when the knee keeps giving way.
What it treats
- Complete and partial ACL tears
- PCL and combined ligament injuries
- Ligament tears with meniscus or cartilage damage
- Knees that keep giving way after an old injury
Common symptoms
- A pop felt in the knee at the moment of injury
- Swelling within a few hours
- The knee feels loose or gives way when you turn
- Difficulty straightening or bending the knee fully
ACL and PCL ligament: when to see a doctor
- Your knee swelled quickly after a twisting injury
- The knee buckles on stairs or when changing direction
- Pain and swelling have not settled after one to two weeks
- You play sport and want to know when it is safe to return
ACL and PCL ligament: treatment options
Examination and imaging
A careful knee examination, with an MRI where needed, to confirm the tear and check for other injuries.
Physiotherapy and bracing
Some partial tears and less active lifestyles do well without surgery.
Arthroscopic reconstruction
When surgery is advised, the ligament is rebuilt through small keyhole cuts, followed by a structured rehabilitation programme.
ACL and PCL ligament: recovery
Most people walk with support within days. Return to sport is considered after a structured rehabilitation programme, usually several months.
Who treats you
Dr. Yash S. Shah consults and operates at Bodyline Hospital, Paldi. He trained in joint replacement and arthroscopy in Mumbai, and at NYU Langone, New York and Johns Hopkins, Baltimore.
Consultation room, Bodyline Hospital, Paldi 
With an arthroscopy mentor during fellowship 
Fellowship training
Video or clinic?
A video consultation is useful to review your MRI, discuss options or get a second opinion. An examination at the clinic is needed before surgery.
Video consultation fee ₹1,000.
Questions
Will I definitely need surgery for an ACL tear?
Not always. Partial tears and people with less demanding lifestyles may do well with physiotherapy. Surgery is discussed when the knee keeps giving way or you want to return to pivoting sports.
What is arthroscopy?
Keyhole surgery: a small camera and instruments go in through tiny cuts. It usually means less pain and a quicker recovery than open surgery.
This page is general information to help you understand your options. It is not a diagnosis or personal medical advice. In an emergency, go to the nearest hospital emergency department.