Can You Tear Your ACL Again After Surgery?

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) surgery is a common procedure performed to restore stability and function to the knee joint after a tear. While the surgery is generally successful, with proper rehabilitation, there is a possibility that complications can arise, leading to a re-tear of the new ligament.

Risks of ACL Surgery

As with any surgical procedure, ACL reconstruction carries certain risks, including:

Infection
Blood clots
Knee pain, especially when using the patellar tendon as graft tissue
Knee weakness and stiffness
Failure of the newly grafted ligament, leading to an unstable knee

These complications can occur in a small percentage of cases, and if the first surgery is unsuccessful, further surgery may be recommended. However, subsequent operations are often more difficult and may not have the same long-term success rate as the initial procedure.

Preventing Re-Tears

To minimize the risk of re-tearing the ACL after surgery, it is essential to follow the rehabilitation protocol prescribed by your healthcare team. This typically involves a combination of physical therapy exercises and gradual return to normal activities and sports. Failure to adhere to the rehabilitation plan can increase the likelihood of complications and re-tears.

Additionally, it is important to note that even with a successful surgery and proper rehabilitation, there is still a risk of re-tearing the ACL in the future, especially if you engage in high-risk sports or activities. Proper conditioning, use of protective equipment, and caution when returning to sports can help reduce this risk.