So they may not require surgery. A high school basketball player, for example, who injures her ACL and wants to continue playing college basketball will require surgery. On the other hand, a casual skier who injures his ACL and normally isn't athletically active may choose not to have surgery. When surgery is needed, ACL reconstruction is normally an outpatient procedure at St. Joseph's that usually takes one to two hours. Following surgery, an Ace wrap and brace are applied to the knee.
Patients use crutches and are encouraged to walk as tolerated on the leg.
Patients with a desk-type job may return to work within several days, but those whose jobs require lifting, climbing and pivoting may need to stay out of work for up to six weeks or longer. Rehabilitation requires up to six months after surgery, depending on which type of reconstructive graft was used. In rehab, a physical therapist helps patients gain motion and strength through different types of exercises and resume everyday activities.