ACL Avulsion Fixation

ACL avulsion fixation restores knee stability by securing torn ligament fragments, enabling faster recovery, improved mobility, and long-term joint function.
ACL Avulsion Fixation

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ACL Avulsion Fixation Services

Comprehensive ACL Avulsion Fixation care with advanced monitoring and safety protocols

An Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) avulsion occurs when the ligament is torn away from its attachment site on the tibia, often along with a small piece of bone. This injury typically happens during high-impact sports, sudden twisting or pivoting movements, or traumatic accidents. A complete avulsion severely compromises knee stability, making normal activities such as walking, running, or climbing stairs difficult and unsafe.

To restore knee function, ACL avulsion fixation is performed. This surgical procedure reattaches the ligament (and any associated bone fragment) to its natural position, helping patients regain joint stability and preventing further damage.

When ACL Avulsion Fixation Is Needed

  • Complete ACL avulsion, often with a bone fragment.
  • Persistent knee instability despite conservative treatment.
  • Associated injuries to cartilage or meniscus that may worsen without repair.
  • Athletes or active individuals require strong, stable knees for performance.

Surgical Approaches

ACL  Avulsion fixation can be performed through arthroscopic surgery (minimally invasive) or open surgery (direct exposure). The choice depends on the complexity of the injury and  the size of the bone fragment..

1. Arthroscopic ACL Avulsion Fixation (Keyhole Surgery)

This is the preferred modern technique for many avulsion injuries. Small incisions (keyholes) are made, and an arthroscope (a camera-assisted tool) allows the surgeon to view the knee on a monitor.

Key Steps:

  • Visualization: The avulsed fragment is identified using the arthroscope.
  • Preparation: The bone bed is cleaned to promote strong healing.
  • Repositioning: The torn ACL and bone fragment are aligned to their original position.
  • Fixation: Special screws, sutures, or anchors secure the fragment to the tibia.
  • Closure: Tiny incisions are closed with sutures or strips.

Advantages:

  • Minimally invasive, with smaller incisions and less tissue damage.
  • Faster recovery and reduced scarring.
  • Ability to treat associated injuries (like meniscus tears) in the same procedure.

2. Open ACL Avulsion Fixation

In some cases—especially with large bone fragments or complex avulsion patterns—an open approach may be chosen. A larger incision provides direct access to the injury site, allowing precise manipulation and fixation.

Key Steps:

  • Exposure: Soft tissues are carefully separated to access the ACL’s tibial attachment.
  • Preparation: The bone bed is cleaned to create a stable healing surface.
  • Repositioning: The fragment and ligament are accurately placed back into position.
  • Fixation: Screws, pins, or sutures firmly secure the fragment.
  • Closure: The incision is closed in layers, and the knee is dressed.

Advantages:

  • Direct visualization of the injury.
  • Useful for complex cases where arthroscopy may not allow adequate fixation.
  • Precise handling of large or multiple fragments.

Post-Surgical Recovery

Rehabilitation is essential for both arthroscopic and open fixation:

  • Immobilization: A knee brace or splint protects the repair in the early weeks.
  • Gradual Weight-Bearing: Introduced under medical supervision.
  • Physiotherapy: Focused on restoring range of motion, strengthening quadriceps and hamstrings, and improving balance.
  • Return to Sports: Typically after 4–6 months, depending on healing and compliance with rehabilitation.

Benefits of ACL Avulsion Fixation

  • Restores knee stability and normal biomechanics.
  • Reduces risk of secondary injuries (meniscus or cartilage damage).
  • Enables athletes and active individuals to return to pre-injury activity levels.
  • Prevents long-term complications such as chronic instability or early arthritis.

Long-Term Outlook

With timely surgical repair—whether arthroscopic or open—and consistent rehabilitation, most patients achieve excellent functional outcomes. Early intervention offers the best chance for restoring stability, protecting joint health, and maintaining an active lifestyle.

Summary

Both arthroscopic and open ACL avulsion fixation are effective techniques for reattaching the ligament and restoring stability. Arthroscopy is minimally invasive and ideal for most cases, while open surgery is reserved for complex injuries requiring direct access. The right choice depends on the injury pattern, but both approaches, combined with structured rehab, can return patients to active, pain-free living.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about ACL Avulsion Fixation and our services

The best treatment for an ACL avulsion fracture depends on the severity of the bone and ligament injury. In minor cases, immobilization with a brace and physiotherapy may help the bone heal naturally. However, if the bone fragment is displaced or joint stability is compromised, surgical fixation is recommended. Modern surgical techniques allow precise reattachment of the bone using screws or sutures, followed by rehabilitation to restore knee strength, flexibility, and full functional recovery.

The protocol for ACL avulsion post op focuses on ensuring proper healing and regaining knee function. Initially, the leg is kept immobilized to protect the repair, followed by gradual physiotherapy to improve range of motion. Weight-bearing typically starts after a few weeks, guided by the surgeon. Strengthening exercises are added progressively to rebuild muscle support. Regular follow-ups and adherence to rehabilitation protocols are crucial for achieving complete recovery and preventing stiffness or reinjury.

Whether ACL avulsion fractures require surgery depends on the displacement and stability of the bone fragment. Small, non-displaced fractures may heal with rest, bracing, and physiotherapy. However, when the avulsed bone significantly shifts or affects joint stability, surgery becomes necessary to reattach the fragment securely. Surgical repair helps restore the ligament’s function and prevents long-term instability. With proper postoperative care and rehabilitation, most patients regain strong, pain-free knee movement and return to normal activities.

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