How long does acl surgery take?

The duration of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) surgery can vary depending on the specific technique used and the individual patient's circumstances. On average, ACL surgery can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours to complete.

Here's a general overview of the timeline for ACL surgery:

1. Preoperative Preparation: Before the surgery, the patient undergoes various preparations, such as getting an anesthesia assessment, signing consent forms, and receiving instructions on preoperative care. This can take around 30-60 minutes.

2. Anesthesia: General anesthesia is typically used for ACL surgery. The anesthesia process, including administering the medications and ensuring the patient's comfort, can take around 15-30 minutes.

3. Surgical Procedure: The actual surgical procedure involves creating small incisions around the knee, inserting a camera (arthroscope), and using specialized instruments to repair or reconstruct the torn ACL. Depending on the technique used (e.g., allograft, autograft, or synthetic graft), the procedure can take anywhere from 45 minutes to 1.5 hours.

4. Post-Procedure Care: After the surgery, the patient is moved to a recovery room for observation and monitoring. This phase can last around 30-60 minutes until the patient's vitals are stable and consciousness is regained.

5. Recovery and Dressing: The surgical wounds are dressed, and the patient may receive pain medication as needed. A brace or immobilizer may be applied to the knee to provide support and protect the repair. This process can take around 15-30 minutes.

Please note that these durations are approximate and can vary based on the surgeon's experience, the hospital's procedures, and any unforeseen complications that may arise during the surgery. Your surgeon will provide you with specific details about the expected duration and steps involved in your particular case.