HomeAnswersRadiologyacl injuryMy knee MRI shows ACL disruption. Do I need a surgery?

What are the most effective treatment options for an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Answered by

Dr. Vivek Chail

Medically reviewed by

iCliniq medical review team

Published At January 22, 2024
Reviewed AtJanuary 22, 2024

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I am unsure about what has happened to my knee. I need a doctor to review my knee MRI. The doctor mentioned that I have an 'ACL disruption.' What is the extent of the damage, and do I require surgery? I need further information to determine if surgery is required or not.

Answered by Dr. Vivek Chail

Hi,

I am glad you chose icliniq for your medical-related queries.

I understand your concern.

I have reviewed the attached MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) images of your knee (attachment removed to protect the patient’s identity), and there is an anterior cruciate ligament injury that has been indicated as a disruption by your doctors. It is not a complete tear but a high-grade partial disruption is likely. The ligament injury in your knee is of moderate intensity, and the decision regarding surgical management depends on any fractures in the area of ligament attachments and clinical mobility at the knee, considering factors like your age and athletic profile. If there is a grade II or III pivot shift during clinical examination and increased ligament laxity, then surgery is recommended. If you are involved in athletic activities, then surgery might be recommended by most doctors. If you are not participating in extensive athletics or sports, then you can wait for recovery and observe the outcome.

Hope I have solved your query. I will be happy to help you further.

Thank you.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Thank you again for your time; I greatly appreciate it.

Is there a possibility of full recovery without surgery? Currently, I only experience instability in the knee, with no pain.

Answered by Dr. Vivek Chail

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Recovery from a ligament injury needs to be reviewed after 6 to 12 weeks, so it is best for you to wait and observe the process. Ligaments consist of fibers, and in cases of disruption, there is damage to these fibers. The chances of a good recovery are higher in young individuals, and likely, your recovery will be good as you are young. Complete recovery in your case means being free from pain and instability, but joint instability remains a concern for you. If there is persistent knee instability or laxity of ligaments that is hindering your movements, then you might require surgical treatment.

Thank you.

I hope you had a pleasant experience with icliniq.

I will always be available for you in case you have any queries.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Vivek Chail
Dr. Vivek Chail

General Practitioner

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