ACL Surgery
ACL Surgery in Kansas City, MO
When it comes to knee injuries, ACL tears are some of the most painful and common, especially in young adults. ACL injuries are most commonly associated with football, basketball, volleyball, soccer, gymnastics, skiing, snowboarding, and other sports involving contact or pivoting. The ACL or anterior cruciate ligament is a ligament that helps connect the thighbone to the shinbone. Tears to this ligament can be partial or complete, which will determine the course of treatment and recovery time.
ACL Tear Injury
ACL injuries are among the most common knee problems we see—especially in active individuals and athletes. Whether it happens on the field, the court, or even during everyday movement, a torn ACL can quickly impact your mobility and quality of life. At Orthopedic Health of Kansas City, our focus is on helping you recover safely and return to the activities that matter most to you.
The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the key stabilizers of the knee. It connects your thighbone to your shinbone and helps control movement, particularly when you pivot, twist, or change direction. When this ligament is stretched or torn, it can compromise the entire function of the knee.
Recognizing an ACL Tear
Not every ACL injury feels the same in the moment. Some patients describe a sudden “pop” followed by immediate pain, while others notice symptoms that develop over the next several hours. Common signs include:
- A popping sensation at the time of injury
- Swelling that develops quickly
- Pain or stiffness when moving the knee
- A feeling that the knee may buckle or give out
Even if symptoms seem mild at first, it’s important to have your knee evaluated to avoid further damage.
Exploring Treatment Options
Treatment depends on how severe the tear is and how active you plan to be moving forward. For smaller or partial tears, non-surgical care—like bracing, rest, and physical therapy—may provide enough support for everyday activities.
However, if your knee feels unstable or you want to return to sports or high-impact movement, surgery is often the most reliable option. Without reconstruction, many patients find it difficult to pivot, run, or perform movements that require stability.
How ACL Reconstruction Works
ACL reconstruction surgery replaces the torn ligament with a tendon graft, which acts as a new stabilizer for the knee. Today, this procedure is typically done using minimally invasive arthroscopic techniques.
This approach uses small incisions and specialized tools, allowing surgeons to repair the knee with precision while minimizing disruption to surrounding tissue. For patients, that often means less discomfort after surgery and a smoother recovery process.
Most procedures are completed within a few hours, and rehabilitation begins soon after to help restore strength and motion.
Personalized Orthopedic Care
At Orthopedic Health of Kansas City, we take a tailored approach to every ACL injury. Some patients need structured rehabilitation, while others benefit from surgical intervention. Either way, our team works closely with you to create a plan that supports your goals and lifestyle.
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You’ll hear a popping sound and feel a similar sensation in your knee when the injury occurs.
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Pain and stiffness in varying degrees to the affected knee
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Rapid swelling and inflammation
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Your knee will feel unstable and wobbly due to the sudden lack of support.
Treatment Options for ACL Tear Injuries
The treatment you’ll require to repair your damaged ACL depends on your goals and how severe the tear is. With only slight tears, it’s possible to repair the problem with bracing and physical therapy. Even with complete tears, you can opt to go without surgery; you won’t have full functions of the damaged knee. You’ll struggle to walk, lift heavy objects, brace yourself, or pivot in any way.
For severe tears, surgery is the only option that will allow you to return to your normal way of life. This is especially true for young or middle-aged adults who enjoy physical activity, sports, and exercise.
ACL surgery is often referred to as ACL reconstruction surgery and involves replacing the damaged ligament with a tendon. The tendon is inserted arthroscopically via two small holes in the knee.
Skilled orthopedic surgeons such as those at Orthopedics of Kansas City can perform these surgeries in several hours and cause minimal scarring. The surgery is performed by threading the new tendon through the small holes in the knee, which means that no major incisions need to be made.
Orthopedic ACL Doctors
If you have any of the symptoms mentioned above, please contact Orthopedic Health of Kansas City and make an appointment with one of our Kansas City knee and leg specialists. They will perform a complete examination, diagnosing and ultimately treating any problem. From simple physical therapy to complicated surgery, you’re in good hands with Orthopedic Health of Kansas City and we will do what it takes to get you active again.
Paul C. Cowan, M.D., M.P.H.
Specializing in Sports Medicine and injuries of the Knee & Shoulder
John Eggers, M.D., Ph.D.
Specializing in injuries of the Hip, Knee & Total Joint Reconstruction
Jon P. Hedgecock, M.D.
Specializing in Sports Medicine and Injuries of the Shoulder, Hip and Knee
Jeffrey Krempec, M.D.
Specializing in injuries of the Hip, Knee & Total Joint Reconstruction
Zachary Roberts, M.D.
Specializing in Trauma and injuries of the Hip & Knee
Christopher L. Wise, M.D.
Specializing in Trauma and injuries of the Hip & Knee
Dustin Woyski, D.O.
Specializing in Hip Preservation/Replacement and Robotic Knee Replacement
Frequently Asked Questions About ACL Surgery
How long is the recovery process?
Recovery varies from person to person, but many patients resume normal daily routines within a few months. Returning to sports or high-impact activities usually takes closer to 9–12 months, depending on strength and progress in rehab.
Is physical therapy really necessary?
Absolutely. Rehab is a key part of healing. Physical therapy helps rebuild muscle strength, improve flexibility, and ensure your knee regains full function safely.
Can you live with a torn ACL?
Some people can manage without surgery, especially if their activity level is low. That said, an unstable knee can increase the risk of additional injuries over time.
What type of graft will be used?
Your surgeon may recommend using your own tissue (such as a hamstring or patellar tendon) or donor tissue. The choice depends on your age, activity level, and overall health.
When can I start walking again?
Many patients begin walking with support shortly after surgery. Crutches are typically used at first, with a gradual return to full weight-bearing as healing progresses.
Are there risks with ACL surgery?
Like any surgical procedure, there are risks, but ACL reconstruction is widely performed and considered safe. Choosing an experienced orthopedic team helps minimize potential complications.
If your knee isn’t feeling stable or you’re dealing with ongoing pain after an injury, it may be time to get it checked out. Our team is here to help you understand your options and move forward with confidence.