ACL Repair

ACL repair at Core Alliance combines advanced orthopedic techniques with a patient-centered approach to restore stability, prevent future injury, and help you move forward with strength.

ACL Repair Restore Knee Strength and Stability

At Core Alliance, our orthopedic team is committed to restoring joint health through precise, personalized care. ACL repair is a minimally invasive procedure that preserves and strengthens the native ligament, offering an alternative to full reconstruction when appropriate.

Dr. Aron Rovner and our skilled surgical team provide this advanced procedure for patients looking to recover without undergoing complete ligament replacement. Schedule your consultation today to learn whether ACL repair is the right approach for your recovery.

What Is ACL Repair?

ACL repair is a surgical procedure that focuses on reattaching the torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) to the bone rather than removing and replacing it. This technique is typically used for patients who have experienced proximal ACL tears—tears close to where the ligament attaches to the femur. When identified early, these tears can often be treated successfully with preservation rather than reconstruction.

Unlike ACL reconstruction, which uses a graft to replace the ligament, ACL repair maintains the natural structure and integrity of your existing ACL. This means a shorter recovery timeline, lower risk of complications, and fewer long-term changes in joint mechanics.

ACL repair is usually performed using arthroscopic techniques, which require only small incisions and offer a faster, less painful recovery. It’s a viable option for select patients, especially younger individuals or athletes with isolated, repairable ACL injuries.

Benefits of ACL Repair

Preserving the native ligament structure can provide important long-term advantages. At Core Alliance, ACL repair offers all of the following benefits:

Preserves Natural Anatomy

ACL repair restores the body’s original ligament instead of replacing it with a graft.

Minimally Invasive

Arthroscopic techniques result in smaller incisions, reduced postoperative pain, and quicker healing.

Faster Recovery

Patients typically experience shorter rehabilitation timelines compared to full ACL reconstruction.

Improved Proprioception

Because the original ligament is retained, patients often retain better joint position sense and neuromuscular control.

Lower Graft-Related Risks

ACL repair avoids potential complications such as graft failure, donor site pain, or mismatched graft tension.

Ideal for Younger Patients

ACL repair may be particularly beneficial for pediatric and adolescent patients where growth plates are still open.

Who Is a Good Candidate for ACL Repair?

ACL repair is best suited for individuals who have experienced a proximal tear of the anterior cruciate ligament with good tissue quality. This procedure is most effective when performed within a few weeks of the injury, before the torn ends begin to degrade or retract. Good candidates typically include younger patients, athletes, or individuals with lower activity demands who want to retain the natural structure of their ligament. The decision to proceed with ACL repair versus reconstruction depends on multiple factors, including the exact location of the tear, the timing of treatment, and imaging results. A comprehensive evaluation by an orthopedic specialist is essential to determine if ACL repair is a safe and effective option.

Your Consultation

During your consultation with Core Alliance, our team will conduct a detailed physical examination and review your imaging results to assess the type and location of your ACL tear. This consultation can be performed either in person or virtually for your convenience. We’ll walk you through your surgical and non-surgical options, ensuring you feel informed and confident in your care plan.

“Dr. Rovner is very informative. He explains everything in great detail and provides many options for treatment. He is very accessible and patient.”

– Aneudy Castillo

Schedule A Consultation Tailored Solutions for Every Spine

What to Expect During ACL Repair Surgery

ACL repair is typically performed on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia. Using a small arthroscope and miniature surgical tools, Dr. Rovner accesses the joint through tiny incisions. The torn end of the ligament is then reattached to the bone using anchors or sutures that promote healing.

Advanced imaging and visualization techniques allow for highly precise placement of the ligament and ensure the repair is stable and aligned. The entire procedure usually takes under 90 minutes. Following surgery, a knee brace may be used temporarily to protect the repair, and physical therapy typically begins within a few days to support joint mobility and healing.

What Is the Recovery Like After ACL Repair?

Most patients are able to walk with crutches shortly after surgery, and many return to light activity within 4 to 6 weeks. Physical therapy focuses on restoring range of motion, strength, and balance while protecting the healing ligament.

Full return to high-impact sports or intense physical activity may take between 4 and 6 months, depending on the individual’s progress and physical demands.

Compared to ACL reconstruction, the recovery timeline is generally shorter and less intensive.

How Much Does ACL Repair Cost?

The cost of ACL repair depends on various factors, including insurance coverage, the surgical setting, and the complexity of your case. During your consultation, our team will provide a detailed cost estimate and help you understand your options for financing and coverage.

Client Testimonials

Real stories. Real results. Discover how other patients found relief and a return to active living through our expert spine care.

Alternatives to ACL Repair

If ACL repair isn’t a suitable option, ACL reconstruction is the most common surgical alternative. This procedure involves replacing the damaged ligament with a graft from the patient’s own tissue or a donor. For less severe injuries, non-surgical treatment such as bracing and physical therapy may be appropriate, though this is rarely recommended for complete ligament tears in active individuals.

Our team at Core Alliance will help you understand all available options based on your unique condition, goals, and lifestyle.

Why Choose Core Alliance?

Core Alliance offers comprehensive orthopedic and sports medicine care with a strong focus on preserving function and promoting long-term joint health. Dr. Rovner brings decades of experience in minimally invasive procedures and personalized treatment planning to every case. Schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward stronger, safer movement.

Frequently Asked Questions ACL Repair

How is ACL repair different from ACL reconstruction?

ACL repair preserves and reattaches the torn ligament, while ACL reconstruction replaces the ligament entirely using a graft.

Is ACL repair as effective as reconstruction?

For appropriate candidates—especially those with proximal tears—ACL repair can offer comparable outcomes with shorter recovery times.

How soon after injury should ACL repair be performed?

Ideally, ACL repair should be done within a few weeks of the injury to ensure the torn ligament remains in good condition for reattachment.

Will I need physical therapy after ACL repair?

Yes. A structured rehabilitation program is essential to restore strength, stability, and mobility following surgery.

Are there risks of re-tear after ACL repair?

While rare, re-tears can occur, particularly if the ligament is reinjured before it has fully healed. Close adherence to post-op guidelines helps reduce this risk.