What is ligament tear?
Ligament tears, often seen in athletes, range from minor sprains to complete ruptures, impacting joint strength and flexibility. While minor tears can be treated with medication, bracing, and physiotherapy, severe tears may require surgery. Ligament sprain treatments mostly involve non-surgical treatments, whereas ligament tears and ruptures need surgical interventions. The most commonly performed ligament tear operations are arthroscopy and ligament reconstruction surgeries.
The severity and location of the tear significantly influence the surgeon’s decision on the best ligament surgery option for the injured patient. Apart from the arthroscopy and reconstructive surgeries, advanced ligament tear treatments such as robotic assisted surgeries and biologic implants are also available to the patients.
| Procedure Name | Ligament Tear Repair |
|---|---|
| Type of Surgery | Open or Minimally invasive |
| Type of Anesthesia | General or spinal anesthesia |
| Procedure Duration | 1-3 hours |
| Recovery Duration | Few weeks to months |
Ligament Tear Repair: Pre-Op & Post-Op Care
Preparation For Ligament Treatment
A doctor confirms a tear diagnosis through physical examination, imaging tests, and medical history. They recommend surgery based on tear severity, ligament location, and overall health, and proceed accordingly.
During the procedure
Surgeons opt for arthroscopy in mild cases and reconstruction in severe ones. In arthroscopic repair, a camera-equipped tube is inserted into the joint under anesthesia to view and repair the ligament tear. Reconstruction involves using grafts, typically from the kneecap or hamstring, to replace the damaged ligament, secured to the bone with screws or sutures.
After ligament tear treatment
The surgery’s complexity and recovery progress may require overnight or multiple days of stay, with pain medication administered in the recovery room and then discharged with the surgeon’s recommendations.
Ligament Surgery Recovery
The recovery time for a ligament tear-related surgery varies based on the severity of the tear, the type of surgery, and the individual’s healing process. Minimally invasive surgeries take a few weeks to months to regain full strength and function in the affected joint, whereas reconstructive surgery might take 6 months to a year for a complete recovery.
Post-procedure care:
- Rest and activity restrictions.
- Avoid strenuous activities until cleared by the surgeon.
- Care for surgical incisions is needed.
- Monitor for infection signs like redness, swelling, or pus.
- Change the wound dressings as directed.
- Continue taking the prescribed pain medications as suggested.
- Regular physical therapy sessions for optimal recovery are needed.
- Maintain a healthy diet as instructed.
- Schedule regular follow-up appointments to monitor progress and adjust the rehabilitation plan.
Benefits of Ligament Tear Repair at Yashoda Hospitals
- Enhanced Joint Stability
- Faster Recovery
- Minimal Hospitalizations
- No Blood Loss
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