- SPECIALIST ORTHOPAEDIC SURGEON | MELBOURNE, VIC | ALBURY, NSW | MORNINGTON, VIC |
- 03 9421 6133
- Melbourne & Mornington VIC |
- Albury, NSW
ACL Reconstruction
Restoring knee stability after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury
ACL reconstruction is a common surgical procedure performed by Dr Hockings to restore stability and function to the knee following a tear of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). The ACL is a vital structure that helps stabilise your knee during movements such as pivoting, twisting, and sudden changes in direction. When it is torn, the knee can feel unstable, painful, or prone to giving way, especially during sports or physically demanding activities.
ACL injuries are particularly common among athletes, but they can occur during everyday accidents such as awkward falls or quick directional shifts. For many active people, an ACL tear can interfere with work, exercise, or sporting goals. If you’re experiencing knee instability, persistent swelling, or reduced confidence in your movement, ACL reconstruction may be recommended to help restore function and protect your joint.
What does ACL reconstruction surgery involve?
ACL reconstruction involves removing the torn ligament and replacing it with a tendon graft that functions as your new ACL. Dr Hockings will carefully assess your anatomy, activity goals, and imaging to select the most suitable graft for your needs. Common graft types include:
- Hamstring tendon autograft; harvested from your own hamstring muscles
- Patellar tendon autograft; taken from the tendon below your kneecap
- Quadriceps tendon autograft; sourced from above the kneecap
- Allograft (donor tendon); occasionally used in revision or select cases
The surgery is typically performed using a minimally invasive arthroscopic technique, with small incisions and the use of a camera to guide the procedure. Bone tunnels are created in the femur and tibia to anchor the graft in the correct anatomical position. The graft is secured using specialised fixation devices, allowing it to heal and eventually function as a new ligament.
Recovery and rehabilitation after ACL surgery
Recovery from ACL reconstruction is a step-by-step process supported by Dr Hockings and your physiotherapy team. The goal is to gradually restore your range of motion, strength, and neuromuscular control while protecting the healing graft. Your recovery pathway may include:
- Early phase (Weeks 1–6): Pain and swelling management, gentle range-of-motion exercises, and supported walking with crutches
- Middle phase (Weeks 6–12): Muscle strengthening and balance retraining
- Late phase (Months 3–6): Functional exercises and return to low-impact activities
- Final phase (Months 6–9+): Sport-specific drills and clearance for return to competitive sports
Return to contact or pivoting sports is usually considered after 9 to 12 months, once strength, coordination, and confidence are fully restored.
Are there risks with ACL reconstruction?
All surgical procedures carry some risk. While most patients recover well, potential complications of ACL reconstruction may include:
- Infection
- Blood clots
- Knee stiffness or reduced range of motion
- Graft failure or re-injury
- Persistent instability or pain
- Numbness around incision sites
- Rare complications related to anaesthesia or graft harvesting
Dr Hockings will explain all risks and expected outcomes during your pre-operative consultation, and steps are taken at each stage to support a safe recovery.
Do all ACL injuries need surgery?
Not everyone with an ACL tear requires surgery. Some individuals, particularly those with low activity demands and no instability, may do well with physiotherapy and bracing alone. Surgery may be more appropriate if:
- You’re young or active and wish to return to sport or heavy work
- Your knee feels unstable during daily or recreational activities
- You have associated injuries to the meniscus or cartilage
- Non-operative treatments have not restored knee function
Dr Hockings will conduct a thorough assessment, including a review of your MRI, clinical examination, and discussion of your lifestyle goals, to help determine the most appropriate treatment pathway.
Personalised care with Dr Jason Hockings
Dr Jason Hockings has extensive experience managing ACL injuries, including first-time tears, complex ligament injuries, and revision procedures. He works closely with physiotherapists, sports doctors, and rehabilitation teams to deliver a well-structured plan tailored to your recovery.
If you’ve sustained an ACL injury or are struggling with knee instability, a consultation with Dr Hockings can help clarify your options and provide expert guidance on the path to recovery.
If you’re experiencing ongoing pain, stiffness, or reduced movement that is affecting your daily activities or quality of life, a thorough orthopaedic assessment can help determine the cause and guide the most appropriate treatment options for your situation.