Dr Julian Yu is a specialist orthopaedic surgeon performing ACL reconstruction following injuries the the anterior cruciate ligament of the knee.

What is an ACL reconstruction?

Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) reconstruction is a surgical procedure used to replace a torn ACL in the knee. The ACL is one of the key ligaments that help stabilise your knee joint. Injuries to this ligament are common among athletes and active individuals, particularly during sports that involve sudden stops, changes in direction, or jumping.

Why is surgery usually required for an ACL tear?

ACL tears typically do not heal on their own. If the injury causes instability, affects daily activities, or you wish to return to sports, reconstruction will usually be recommended. Symptoms of an ACL tear include:

  • A popping sound at the time of injury
  • Swelling and pain
  • Knee instability or "giving way"
  • Difficulty walking or bearing weight

What happens during an ACL reconstruction?

ACL reconstruction is usually performed using arthroscopic surgery, which is minimally invasive. During the procedure:

  • The torn ACL is removed.
  • A graft is used to replace the damaged ligament. This graft can come from your own body (autograft) such as the hamstring or patellar tendon, or from a donor (allograft).
  • The new ligament is placed in the correct position and secured with screws or other fixation devices.
  • The incision is closed and a dressing is applied.

After an ACL reconstruction

After surgery, recovery begins immediately. Patients may stay in hospital for a day or go home the same day. A knee brace and crutches are commonly used for the first few weeks to protect the knee.

Physiotherapy starts soon after surgery to help restore movement, strength, and function. Most people can expect to return to sports or other high-impact activities in about 6 to 9 months, depending on how well the knee heals and the type of sport.

Risks of an ACL reconstruction

Like all surgeries, ACL reconstruction carries some risks. These include infection, blood clots, stiffness, re-injury, or pain at the site where the graft was taken. However, most people experience improved knee stability, reduced pain, and a successful return to their previous activity level after completing rehabilitation.

For all appointments and enquiries, please phone (02) 8045 5688

Monday to Friday   9am–5pm

  Frenchs Forest

Peninsula Orthopaedics
Suite 20, Level 7
Northern Beaches Hospital
105 Frenchs Forest Rd
Frenchs Forest NSW 2086

  Chatswood

Orthopaedic & Arthritis Specialist Centre
Level 2, Gallery Arcade
445 Victoria Avenue
Chatswood NSW 2067

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