Dr. Ast performs ACL reconstruction in Paramus, rebuilding the torn anterior cruciate ligament with a tissue graft taken from your body or a donor. It is considered after swelling settles and therapy restores motion, for people who need a stable knee for their activities.
Michael Ast performs acl reconstruction in Paramus when it is the right step, and reviews every alternative with you first.
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. Ast 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.
Read the full guide to preparing for surgery →
Your own recovery instructions come from the office and are specific to you. This page describes the general course, not a plan to follow.
What do patients ask most?
What kind of graft is used for ACL reconstruction?+
How soon can I return to sports after ACL reconstruction?+
Why do I need physical therapy before surgery?+
Can an ACL reconstruction be done at the same time as a meniscus repair?+
What are the treatment options?
- 01Rest, ice, and swelling control after injuryRest, ice, and swelling control after injury.
- 02Physical therapy to restore full motion before surgery, which improves recoveryPhysical therapy to restore full motion before surgery, which improves recovery.
- 03A brace for support during this periodA brace for support during this period.
- 04Non-surgical management for people with a stable knee and lower activity demandsNon-surgical management for people with a stable knee and lower activity demands.
- 05ACL reconstruction, when the knee is unstable or the person returns to pivoting sportACL reconstruction, when the knee is unstable or the person returns to pivoting sport.
Fellowship trained at Hospital for Special Surgery (Adult Reconstruction and Joint Replacement surgery). Sees patients in Paramus.
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