What is Soft Tissue Knee Reconstruction Surgery?

Soft tissue knee reconstruction surgery is a procedure aimed at repairing and reconstructing damaged soft tissues in the knee, including ligaments, tendons, and cartilage. This surgery is often performed to restore stability, function, and mobility to the knee joint after injuries such as ligament tears, tendon ruptures, or significant cartilage damage. The goal is to relieve pain, improve joint stability, and allow patients to return to their normal activities.

How is Soft Tissue Knee Reconstruction Surgery Done?

1. Preoperative Assessment: A thorough evaluation, including medical history, physical examination, and imaging studies such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans, is conducted to plan the surgery.
2. Anaesthesia: The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia or regional anaesthesia (spinal or epidural), ensuring the patient is pain-free during the surgery.
3. Incisions: Small incisions are made around the knee to access the damaged tissues. For minimally invasive procedures, an arthroscope (a small camera) may be used.
4. Repair and Reconstruction: Depending on the injury, the surgeon will repair or reconstruct the damaged ligaments, tendons, or cartilage. This may involve:
   • Ligament Reconstruction: Using a graft (either autograft from the patient or allograft from a donor) to replace a torn ligament, such as the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL).
   • Tendon Repair: Suturing or reattaching a ruptured tendon to its original position.
   • Cartilage Restoration: Techniques such as microfracture, osteochondral autograft transfer, or autologous chondrocyte implantation to repair damaged cartilage.
5. Closure: The incisions are closed with sutures or staples, and a sterile dressing is applied.

Why is Soft Tissue Knee Reconstruction Surgery Done?

Soft tissue knee reconstruction surgery is performed to restore the function and stability of the knee joint after significant soft tissue injuries. It is particularly beneficial for patients who:

• Have suffered ligament tears (e.g., ACL, PCL) that cause knee instability.
• Experience tendon ruptures that impair knee movement.
• Have significant cartilage damage leading to pain and joint dysfunction.
• Wish to return to active lifestyles, sports, or physically demanding jobs.

Who Might Need Soft Tissue Knee Reconstruction Surgery?

Soft tissue knee reconstruction surgery is recommended for individuals who experience:

• Severe knee pain and instability following an injury.
• Inability to perform daily activities or participate in sports due to knee dysfunction.
• Persistent knee problems that do not respond to conservative treatments like physical therapy, bracing, or medications.
• Recurrent knee injuries or chronic instability.

Conditions Treated with Soft Tissue Knee Reconstruction Surgery

• ACL Tears: Reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament to restore knee stability.
• PCL Tears: Reconstruction of the posterior cruciate ligament.
• Meniscal Tears: Repair or removal of torn meniscus cartilage.
• Patellar Tendon Ruptures: Repair of the tendon connecting the kneecap to the shinbone.
• Cartilage Damage: Restoration procedures for damaged articular cartilage.

Recovery Times

Recovery time after soft tissue knee reconstruction surgery varies depending on the type and severity of the injury, as well as the specific procedure performed. Generally:

• Hospital Stay: Patients may stay in the hospital for 1-3 days post-surgery.
• Initial Recovery: Walking with the aid of crutches or a knee brace is encouraged within a few days after surgery.
• Physical Therapy: A structured rehabilitation programme begins soon after surgery to restore strength, flexibility, and mobility.
• Full Recovery: Most patients resume normal activities within 6 to 12 months, depending on the complexity of the surgery and the individual’s adherence to rehabilitation.

Tips for a Good Recovery

1. Follow Postoperative Instructions: Adhere to your surgeon’s guidelines on wound care, activity restrictions, and medication.
2. Physical Therapy: Engage in prescribed physical therapy exercises to enhance strength and mobility.
3. Rest and Elevation: Keep the knee elevated and avoid strenuous activities to reduce swelling.
4. Ice Therapy: Apply ice packs to the knee to reduce pain and inflammation.
5. Healthy Diet: Maintain a balanced diet to support healing and overall health.
6. Monitor for Complications: Watch for signs of complications such as increased pain, swelling, or infection, and report them to your doctor promptly.

Conclusion

Soft tissue knee reconstruction surgery is an effective solution for individuals suffering from significant knee injuries that impair function and stability. By repairing or reconstructing damaged ligaments, tendons, and cartilage, this procedure can significantly reduce pain, restore mobility, and enhance the quality of life. If you are experiencing severe knee problems and conservative treatments have not provided relief, soft tissue knee reconstruction surgery with Professor Ali Ghoz may be the right option for you. Consult with Professor Ghoz to discuss your condition and develop a personalised treatment plan tailored to your needs.