What is ACL Reconstruction?
The ACL is a key ligament that stabilises your knee. When torn, it cannot heal on its own — surgical reconstruction is often needed to restore stability, especially for active individuals wanting to return to sports.
Dr Lai performs this surgery arthroscopically (keyhole surgery), through small incisions using a camera inside the knee.
How ACL Injuries Happen
ACL injuries commonly occur during sports involving:
- Sudden stops or direction changes
- Pivoting with the foot planted
- Awkward landing from a jump
- Direct collision to the knee
High-risk sports include football, basketball, netball, rugby, skiing, and tennis.
Dr Lai's Approach
As a former national rugby player (10 caps) and former Medical Director of the Singapore Rugby Union, Dr Lai understands the demands athletes place on their knees.
Surgical Technique
Arthroscopic reconstruction through 2-3 small incisions, using a camera inside the knee.
Graft Options
Autografts (your own tissue): hamstring tendon or quadriceps tendon, chosen based on your anatomy and goals.
What to Expect
Before Surgery
MRI, X-rays, physical exam. Personalised treatment plan created.
The Surgery
60-90 minutes under general anaesthesia. Most go home same day or next morning.
Initial Recovery (0-4 weeks)
Crutches and brace. Focus on reducing swelling and gentle physio.
Rehabilitation (1-6 months)
Structured physio to rebuild strength. Progress from walking to jogging.
Return to Sport (9-12 months)
Sport-specific training. Objective testing before full clearance.
ACL Reconstruction at a Glance
Who Needs ACL Reconstruction?
Not everyone with an ACL tear needs surgery.
Surgery typically recommended for:
- Active individuals wanting to return to pivoting sports
- Knee instability (giving way) during daily activities
- Combined injuries (meniscus or other ligaments)
- Young patients with many active years ahead
Non-surgical management may suit:
- Older patients with lower activity demands
- Those who can avoid pivoting sports
- Partial tears with minimal instability
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an ACL injury and how does it happen?
The Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) is one of the key ligaments that provides stability to your knee. ACL injuries commonly occur during sports that involve sudden stops, jumping, or changes in direction — such as football, basketball, netball, and rugby. The injury often happens when landing from a jump, pivoting, or from direct contact.
Do all ACL tears require surgery?
Not all ACL tears require surgery. The decision depends on your age, activity level, degree of instability, and goals. Young, active patients who want to return to sports typically benefit from reconstruction. Older patients with lower activity demands may manage well with rehabilitation alone. Dr Lai will assess your specific situation and discuss all options during your consultation.
What type of ACL reconstruction technique does Dr Lai use?
Dr Lai uses arthroscopic ACL reconstruction, a minimally invasive technique performed through small incisions. He typically uses hamstring autograft (tissue from your own body) or quadriceps tendon, selected based on your anatomy, activity goals, and any previous injuries. The procedure takes approximately 60-90 minutes.
What can I expect after ACL reconstruction?
Reconstruction aims to restore stability to the knee so you can return to your activities, including sport. How things go depends on the injury, any damage alongside it, and rehabilitation. Completing a structured rehabilitation programme, with testing before you return to sport, lowers the risk of injuring the knee again. Dr Lai will go through what to expect in your case.
How long is the recovery after ACL reconstruction?
Recovery typically follows this timeline: 2-4 weeks for crutches, 3-4 months to return to light jogging, 6-9 months for return to sports with proper clearance. Full recovery and return to competitive sports usually takes 9-12 months. Dr Lai provides a structured rehabilitation programme and monitors your progress throughout.
Can I return to sports after ACL reconstruction?
Returning to sport is the usual goal of ACL reconstruction. Dr Lai uses objective criteria and functional testing to determine when it's safe to return to sports, typically at 9-12 months post-surgery.