Does ACL reconstruction leave a scar?

Postoperative scarring is a known complication after arthroscopic anterior ligament reconstruction of the knee. The rate of symptomatic scarring requiring surgical lysis of adhesions after isolated anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction is approximately 0.34%.

Does your patellar tendon grow back after ACL surgery?

We use the patellar tendon because it has a higher success rate than the other graft options available. It is the strongest type of graft found in the body and is just as strong as a normal ACL. The other benefit is that the tendon will grow back after taking the tissue out to create the new ACL.

How long does it take for the patella to heal after ACL surgery?

Results. In 70 percent of the cases, the healing process was completed after 6 months and the remaining 30 percent recovered after 12 months.

What happens to the patella after ACL surgery?

The authors conclude that a harvested patellar tendon doesn’t return to normal. It does remodel itself even after two years, but the tissue quality is lower than normal. If the patient ruptures the repaired ACL, tissue to repair it again should come from someplace else (such as the hamstring tendons behind the knee).

How do you get rid of ACL scars?

Scar massage, with massage cream or over the counter scar creams, also assists in reducing the amount of scar tissue that develops in and around the scar. Be careful not to massage directly over the scar, until it is well healed. To schedule an appointment for physical therapy at JOI Rehab, please call 904-858-7045.

Is patellar tendon graft stronger than ACL?

It is quite strong. Biomechanical studies have shown that it is about 70% stronger than a normal ACL at the time of implantation. Some studies on patellar tendon grafts have demonstrated higher functional scores postoperatively and lower failure rates.

How strong is patellar tendon graft?

The initial graft tensile strength of bone-patellar tendon-bone autograft is 2977 N with a stiffness of 620 N/mm. This is over 1.5 times the strength and 4 times the stiffness of the native ACL. Additionally, graft fixation should be secure enough to allow early rehabilitation with rapid incorporation of the graft.

How long does an ACL scar take to heal?

While the 6 month time frame is typically the earliest patients are allowed to return to contact sports, graft healing and recovery can take up to 12 months or more.

How long does it take for ACL scars to heal?

An ACL tear recovery time is generally eight to nine months, though some people may recover in six months.

What is the weakest ACL graft?

The graft complex is actually at its weakest at around the 6 week post operative mark.