Here’s the translation to American English:
The rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) has become one of the most concerning injuries in the sports field, although its impact also extends to active individuals outside this environment. This ligament plays a crucial role in knee stability, being essential for fundamental movements such as running, jumping, and turning. According to orthopedic specialist Asier Cuéllar from Policlínica Gipuzkoa, losing the integrity of this ligament can severely affect knee functionality.
Cuéllar explains that, in most cases, ACL tears do not occur in isolation. “It’s common for these injuries to be accompanied by damage to the menisci, bone traumas, or cartilage injuries.” This reality complicates both diagnosis and treatment, as each case can vary considerably depending on the severity of associated injuries and individual factors such as the patient’s age and level of physical activity.
Advances in diagnostic methods, especially the use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), have allowed for a more accurate assessment of the knee’s condition, facilitating decision-making regarding the treatment to follow. Currently, orthopedic surgery is focused on preserving the meniscus whenever possible. “The aim is to preserve the meniscus, even in cases of tears, given its importance in knee function,” Cuéllar points out.
Regarding cartilage injuries, the specialist notes that they do not always require surgical intervention; however, in certain cases, surgery is necessary to prevent complications in the future. Additionally, if there is damage to other ligaments, it will be evaluated whether they should be treated in the same procedure or in later stages, considering that some structures may heal on their own.
The rehabilitation process usually begins several weeks after surgery, although returning to sports activity is not immediate. Cuéllar emphasizes that adapted physical activity can begin between three and four weeks post-surgery, while regaining previous athletic performance may take from eight to twelve months. “We aim to delay this return to prevent relapses,” notes the orthopedic specialist.
Regarding innovations in surgical techniques, Cuéllar stresses that the goal is always to reconstruct the damaged tissue while respecting the original anatomy of the knee. “Despite improvements in procedures and materials, we still do not have an effective alternative to complete reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament,” he concludes, reflecting the complexity and challenges these injuries represent in the field of orthopedic health.
via: MiMub in Spanish
