Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Reconstruction Surgery in Lincoln & Omaha, NE
Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction is a surgical procedure used to restore stability to the knee after an ACL tear. The ACL is one of the primary stabilizing ligaments of the knee, located in the center of the joint, and connects the femur (thigh bone) to the tibia (shin bone). It helps control forward movement and rotational stability of the knee. When the ACL is torn, it does not heal on its own and often leads to ongoing instability, especially during sports or pivoting activities. ACL reconstruction replaces the torn ligament with a graft to restore knee stability and function.
Matthew Byington, DO provides evaluation and treatment for ACL injuries in Lincoln and Omaha, including advanced arthroscopic ACL reconstruction procedures.
What Is the ACL?
The anterior cruciate ligament is one of the major ligaments inside the knee that helps stabilize the joint during movement. It prevents the tibia from sliding too far forward relative to the femur and plays a key role in rotational control during activities such as running, cutting, and jumping.
Causes of ACL Injuries
ACL tears commonly occur due to:
- Sudden direction changes (cutting or pivoting)
- Rapid deceleration or stopping
- Jumping and awkward landings
- Direct trauma or contact injuries
- Sports injuries in football, soccer, basketball, skiing, and similar activities
- Hyperextension of the knee
Symptoms of ACL Tear
Patients with an ACL injury may experience:
- A popping sensation at the time of injury
- Rapid swelling within hours
- Knee instability or “giving way”
- Pain and difficulty bearing weight
- Reduced range of motion
- Difficulty with pivoting or sports activities
How ACL Injuries Are Diagnosed
Diagnosis typically includes:
- Medical history and injury description
- Physical examination and stability testing
- Lachman test and other ligament stress tests
- X-rays to rule out fractures
- MRI to confirm ACL tear and evaluate associated injuries
MRI also helps identify meniscus or cartilage damage.
When Is ACL Reconstruction Recommended?
ACL reconstruction may be recommended for:
- Complete ACL tears
- Knee instability affecting daily activities
- Athletes wishing to return to pivoting sports
- Combined meniscus or cartilage injuries
- Failure of non-surgical treatment
- Recurrent knee “giving way” episodes
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 Is Performed
ACL reconstruction is typically performed arthroscopically using small incisions and a graft to replace the torn ligament.
Surgical steps may include:
- Small incisions around the knee
- Arthroscopic evaluation of the joint
- Removal of damaged ACL tissue
- Preparation of bone tunnels in the femur and tibia
- Placement of a graft (hamstring, patellar tendon, or allograft)
- Fixation of the graft in anatomic position
- Testing knee stability through range of motion
- Closure of incisions with sutures or steri-strips
The goal is to restore normal knee stability and function.
Recovery After ACL Reconstruction
Recovery is structured and rehabilitation-focused:
- Early use of a knee brace (if needed)
- Weight-bearing progression with crutches
- Physical therapy beginning shortly after surgery
- Range-of-motion exercises
- Strengthening of quadriceps and hamstrings
- Balance and neuromuscular training
- Gradual return to running and sports-specific training
- Full return to sports typically takes several months
Rehabilitation is essential for a successful outcome.
Benefits of ACL Reconstruction
- Restores knee stability
- Reduces risk of further injury
- Improves ability to return to sports and activity
- Restores normal knee mechanics
- Protects meniscus and cartilage from damage
- Improves confidence during movement
Risks & Complications
Possible risks include:
- Knee stiffness
- Graft failure or re-tear
- Infection
- Blood clots (deep vein thrombosis)
- Nerve irritation or numbness
- Persistent instability or pain
- Loss of motion
- Reinjury during recovery
Why Choose Matthew Byington, DO
Matthew Byington, DO specializes in sports medicine and minimally invasive knee surgery, including ACL reconstruction and complex ligament injuries. His approach focuses on restoring stability, protecting joint health, and helping patients return safely to activity.
Treatment plans are customized based on injury severity, activity goals, and associated knee conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does an ACL tear heal without surgery?
No. A torn ACL does not typically heal on its own.
How long is ACL recovery?
Most patients require several months of rehabilitation before returning to sports.
Can I walk after ACL surgery?
Yes, with assistance shortly after surgery depending on the rehabilitation plan.
Will I be able to return to sports?
Many patients return to sports after full recovery and rehab.
Is ACL reconstruction arthroscopic?
Yes, it is commonly performed using minimally invasive arthroscopic techniques.
Restore Knee Stability & Return to Activity
If an ACL injury is affecting your stability or preventing you from returning to sports and daily activities, ACL reconstruction may help restore function and protect long-term knee health.
Schedule a consultation with Matthew Byington, DO to discuss your treatment options.