ACL Reconstruction and Repair
The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the key stabilizing ligaments in the knee joint. A torn ACL—whether from sports, trauma, or fall—can lead to instability and pain while moving the knee, impacting your ability to participate in sports, physical activity, and even daily movement.
Dr. Seiter specializes in ACL reconstruction and repair using modern surgical techniques that restore knee stability and support long-term joint health. Whether you’re an athlete aiming to return to competition or you’re simply looking to walk with ease, treatment can help you get back to physical activity with confidence.
Candidates for ACL Surgery
You may be a candidate for ACL reconstruction or repair if you:
- Have a complete or partial ACL tear
- Experience knee instability or a “giving out” sensation
- Have difficulty pivoting, squatting, or descending stairs
- Had to stop high-impact or competitive sports due to knee problems
- Have associated injuries, such as meniscus tears or cartilage damage
- Want to reduce the risk of further joint damage over time
Dr. Seiter will perform a thorough physical exam and review imaging to determine whether ACL surgery is the best solution for you.
About the Procedure
ACL surgery is performed to restore stability and function to the knee. Depending on the type and location of the tear, Dr. Seiter may perform either an ACL repair or a full ACL reconstruction. In both cases, Dr. Seiter uses minimally invasive arthroscopic techniques.
- ACL Repair: In select cases—typically when the tissue is healthy and the tear is near the ligament’s attachment to the bone—the ACL can be reattached using anchors. This approach is only used for specific types of tears, often in younger patients.
- ACL Reconstruction: Most patients with an ACL tear will require ACL reconstruction, which involves replacing the torn ligament with a new graft. Graft options include the patellar tendon (strong and often used for athletes), hamstring tendon (popular for lower kneecap pain), quadriceps tendon (a thicker option used in some primary or revision cases), or allograft (donor tissue, sometimes used in older or less active individuals).
If additional injuries like meniscus tears are present, they can often be treated during the same procedure. Dr. Seiter will recommend a surgical plan best suited to your individual needs.
Recovery
Recovery after ACL surgery is a gradual process, with milestones guided by your procedure, physical therapy progress, and activity goals.
- Crutches for 1 to 2 weeks and a knee brace to protect healing
- Physical therapy begins within the first week to restore motion and strength
- Return to light activity and daily tasks typically within 6 weeks
- Running and agility drills can begin around 3 to 4 months
- Return to sports is generally allowed between 6 to 9 months, depending on recovery progress
Dr. Seiter and your rehab team will customize your recovery plan to ensure a safe and confident return to activity—whether that’s on the field, in the gym, or everyday life.