ACL Reconstruction with Hamstring

Overview

This procedure replaces a damaged or torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) with part of a hamstring tendon (called an autograft) from the patient's leg.

Graft Harvesting

Through a small incision below the knee, portions of the hamstring's semitendinous and gracilis tendons are separated from the muscle. These strips, when prepared, will replace the damaged ACL.

Clearing the ACL

The rest of the procedure is performed through small incisions on the sides of the knee. The surgeon uses a small video camera called an arthroscope to see inside the knee during the procedure. With the knee flexed, the damaged ACL is cleared away.

Guide Pin

A pin is inserted diagonally from the tibia to the femur. The surgeon will use the pin as a guide to recreate the ACL.

Creating the Tunnel

A tunnel is drilled along the path of the guide pin through the tibia and femur.

Inserting the Graft

The graft strand is attached to the EZLoc™ implant and pulled through the tunnel. After passing through the tunnel, the EZLoc™ device is opened and pulled back firmly against the bone surface, anchoring the graft and creating the new ACL.

Securing the Graft

After the knee is straightened, the loose ends of the grafts are pulled tight and held securely to the tibia bone with a washer (that has nail-like spikes) and a screw.

End of Procedure

The excess autograft length is trimmed away. The knee is tested by flexing and extending the knee through its full range of motion.

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.