What is ACL Reconstruction?
ACL reconstruction rebuilds the torn anterior cruciate ligament, the band in the center of the knee that keeps the shin bone from sliding forward.
A torn ACL does not heal back together, so it is replaced with a graft.
The graft is a piece of tendon, taken either from your own body or from a donor, that is passed through tunnels in the bone to recreate the ligament. Over time, the graft becomes a working ligament.
Reconstruction is chosen based on activity and stability. It is common for people who pivot, cut, or play contact sports, and less often needed for those with low activity demands and a stable knee.
What happens during ACL Reconstruction, step by step?
Reconstruction is usually done with arthroscopy, a small camera through tiny incisions.
The surgeon removes the torn ligament, drills tunnels in the shin and thigh bones, and fixes the graft in place. Any meniscus or cartilage injury is treated at the same time. Dr. wodicka will discuss graft choices and what fits your case.
What is recovery like after ACL Reconstruction?
Recovery is a staged rehabilitation over months.
Many people walk with support early and regain motion in the first weeks. Return to running is often several months out, and return to pivoting sport commonly takes about 9 to 12 months, according to general guidance from the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. These are ranges, not promises. Meeting specific strength and control goals matters more than the calendar, and your team will guide each step.
Who performs acl reconstruction in Fort Lauderdale?
ross wodicka is a orthopedic surgeon who performs acl reconstruction in Fort Lauderdale, FL. Fellowship trained at southern california orthopaedic institute (scoi). Dr. wodicka sees patients at the practice in Fort Lauderdale; appointments can be requested through this site.
What do patients ask most often?
What kind of graft is used for ACL reconstruction?
Grafts can come from your own body, such as a hamstring or patellar tendon, or from a donor. Each has trade-offs, and Dr. wodicka will discuss which fits your age, activity, and goals.
How soon can I return to sports after ACL reconstruction?
Return to pivoting sport commonly takes about 9 to 12 months, according to general guidance from the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. This is a range, not a promise, and depends on meeting strength and control goals.
Why do I need physical therapy before surgery?
Restoring full motion and calming swelling before surgery improves recovery afterward. This preparation is a standard part of planning.
Can an ACL reconstruction be done at the same time as a meniscus repair?
Yes. When a meniscus or cartilage injury is present, it is often treated during the same procedure. Your surgeon will explain the combined plan.
How do payments work?
Contact the office to confirm insurance participation.
This page is for general education and does not replace an evaluation by a physician. Individual treatment plans vary, and this content should not be used to self-diagnose.