ACL reconstruction with a patellar tendon graft is a surgical procedure that replaces a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) with a graft taken from the patient’s patellar tendon. The patellar tendon is a thick band of tissue that connects the bottom of the kneecap to the top of the shinbone. The graft is sometimes called a bone-patellar-tendon-bone (BPTB) graft because it includes a strip of tendon and bone plugs on each end.
The procedure is often recommended to restore knee strength and function after a tear, which is common during sports activities.
- The patient is anesthetized and the surgeon makes a small incision in the front of the knee.
- The surgeon removes a portion of the patellar tendon and some bone where it attaches to the kneecap.
- The surgeon drills holes in the bone to accept the new graft.
- The graft is then prepared and inserted into the holes.
The tendon gap usually fills in with tendon-like tissue and is almost healed within 2–3 years, but healing can begin as early as 6 weeks. Some scar tissue may also form during the healing process.
The BPTB graft is often the preferred option for young, active patients and competitive athletes because it has a good track record of low failure rates and high return-to-play rates. However, the surgeon may also consider using a graft taken from the hamstring tendon, and the final decision is often based on the surgeon’s preference.
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Understanding the Missing Link in ACL Injury Prevention
Advice for Recovering from a Torn ACL
