ACL Reconstruction Using Patellar Tendon Surgery in Lincoln & Omaha, NE
Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction using patellar tendon is a surgical procedure that replaces a torn ACL with a graft taken from the patient’s own patellar tendon. The ACL is one of the major stabilizing ligaments of the knee, connecting the femur (thigh bone) to the tibia (shin bone), and it plays a critical role in controlling forward motion and rotational stability of the joint. When the ACL is torn, patients often experience instability, difficulty with movement, and a sensation that the knee may “give way.” ACL reconstruction using patellar tendon graft restores stability and function to the knee after injury.
Matthew Byington, DO provides evaluation and treatment for ACL injuries in Lincoln and Omaha, including advanced ACL reconstruction using patellar tendon graft techniques.
What Is ACL Reconstruction Using Patellar Tendon?
ACL reconstruction using patellar tendon involves replacing the torn ligament with a graft taken from the central portion of the patellar tendon, along with small bone plugs from the kneecap and tibia. This graft is used to recreate the native ACL and restore knee stability.
The procedure is commonly recommended for patients who wish to return to high-demand sports or activities requiring pivoting, cutting, and jumping.
Causes of ACL Injuries
ACL injuries commonly occur during:
- Sudden changes in direction
- Rapid deceleration while running
- Improper landing from a jump
- Direct impact to the knee (sports injuries or collisions)
- Twisting motions with the foot planted
These movements place excessive stress on the ligament, leading to tearing.
Symptoms of ACL Tear
Patients with an ACL injury may experience:
- A loud “pop” at the time of injury
- Rapid swelling within hours
- Knee instability or “giving way”
- Pain and difficulty bearing weight
- Loss of confidence in the knee during movement
- Difficulty with pivoting or sports activities
How ACL Injuries Are Diagnosed
Diagnosis typically includes:
- Medical history and injury details
- Physical examination of knee stability
- Lachman test to assess ligament integrity
- Pivot shift test for rotational instability
- X-rays to rule out fractures
- MRI to confirm ACL tear and evaluate associated injuries
When Is ACL Reconstruction Recommended?
ACL reconstruction using patellar tendon may be recommended for:
- Complete ACL tears
- Athletes or active individuals
- Knee instability affecting daily activities
- Combined meniscus or cartilage injuries
- Failure of non-surgical treatment
- Desire to return to pivoting or high-impact sports
Matthew Byington, DO Board Certified Orthopaedic Surgeon
Dr. Matthew Byington is a board certified Orthopedic Surgeon, specializing in minimally invasive arthroscopic techniques and sports medicine. He specializes in Shoulder, Knee and Elbow conditions, although he treats all orthopedic conditions.
How ACL Reconstruction (Patellar Tendon) Is Performed
ACL reconstruction is performed under general anesthesia using minimally invasive arthroscopic techniques along with a small incision for graft harvesting.
Surgical steps may include:
- Arthroscopic evaluation of the knee joint
- Removal of the torn ACL tissue
- Harvesting of the middle third of the patellar tendon with bone plugs
- Preparation of bone tunnels in the femur and tibia
- Passage of the graft through the tunnels
- Fixation of the graft using screws or similar devices
- Testing knee stability through range of motion
- Closure of incisions with sutures and sterile dressing
The graft gradually integrates into the bone to recreate a stable ACL.
Recovery After ACL Reconstruction
Recovery is structured and rehabilitation-focused:
- Early physical therapy begins soon after surgery
- Use of crutches and/or knee brace as needed
- Swelling and pain control measures
- Gradual restoration of knee motion
- Strengthening of quadriceps and hamstrings
- Balance and neuromuscular training
- Progressive return to running and sports-specific activity
- Return to competitive sports typically after several months
Avoiding premature return to sports is critical for graft healing.
Benefits of Patellar Tendon ACL Reconstruction
- Strong and durable graft option
- Excellent knee stability restoration
- Improved return-to-sport potential
- Reduced risk of recurrent instability
- Reliable fixation due to bone-to-bone healing
- Improved confidence during high-demand activity
Risks & Complications
Possible risks include:
- Knee pain, especially anterior knee pain
- Numbness around incision site
- Infection
- Blood clots (deep vein thrombosis)
- Graft failure or re-tear
- Loss of motion or stiffness
- Patellar crepitus (grinding sensation)
- Nerve or blood vessel injury
- Persistent instability
Why Choose Matthew Byington, DO
Matthew Byington, DO specializes in sports medicine and advanced knee ligament reconstruction, including ACL reconstruction using patellar tendon graft techniques. His approach focuses on restoring stability, optimizing graft selection, and helping patients safely return to active lifestyles.
Care is individualized based on activity level, injury pattern, and long-term functional goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why use the patellar tendon for ACL reconstruction?
It provides a strong graft with reliable bone-to-bone healing.
How long is recovery?
Most patients require several months of rehabilitation before returning to sports.
Is knee pain common after this procedure?
Some patients may experience temporary anterior knee pain during recovery.
Can I return to sports?
Yes, many patients return to sports after completing rehab and regaining strength.
Is this a common ACL surgery method?
Yes, it is one of the most widely used ACL reconstruction techniques.
Restore Knee Stability & Return to Activity
If an ACL injury is affecting your mobility or ability to participate in sports, ACL reconstruction using patellar tendon graft may help restore stability and function.
Schedule a consultation with Matthew Byington, DO to discuss your personalized treatment plan.