Reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament -- commonly called the ACL -- in your knee includes the implantation of a new ligament via the use of a graft. This graft can come from either your hamstring tendon or as part of your patellar tendon. Your surgeon will harvest this ligament graft, shape it to the appropriate dimensions of your previous ACL and surgically suture this replacement ligament into your knee capsule. Rehabilitation and recovery duration related to these ligament grafts can differ.
Choices
Two of the most common ligament graft options to use for ACL reconstruction include either a patellar tendon or hamstring ligament graft. The advantages of using a patellar tendon graft include early bone-to-bone healing at six weeks and the consistent size and shape of an ACL ligament. Advantages of a hamstring graft include the bundled nature of the hamstring tendon, which is typically stronger than a patellar tendon graft.
Patellar Tendon
If you and your surgeon agree to use a patellar tendon graft, your rehabilitation will also focus on proper patellar joint movement within your knee capsule. This process can include a focus on how your patella glides across your femor and tibia when your knee flexes and extends naturally. Strengthening exercises are reserved for overall knee benefit in this case, while flexibility and range of motion is the primary focus to insure proper knee mobility.
Hamstring Tendon
Hamstring tendon grafts tend to take longer to heal in comparison to a patellar tendon graft -- typically a total of 10 to 12 weeks. Rehabilitation in this example will focus primarily on strengthening your hamstring muscles as they are likely to atrophy as a result of your tendon being removed from this area of your leg. While flexibility and knee joint range of motion are also included in your therapy, muscle strength and stability will need to be established to insure proper healing of your knee capsule.
Considerations
Regardless of either graft option, your therapist will follow a set therapeutic protocol for your ACL treatment plan with the goal of helping you return to your activities of daily living. Your treatment program is also structured to reeducate your body to perform naturally after having either the patellar tendon or hamstring tendon compromised. Overall, the rehab time of a reconstructed ACL can take up to six months regardless of your graft option.
