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Center of Excellence • Sports Knee

ACL Reconstruction in Indore — Keyhole Surgery, Return to Sport

Quick answer: ACL reconstruction rebuilds the torn anterior cruciate ligament of the knee using a keyhole (arthroscopic) technique and your own tendon graft. Dr. Varun Chouhan performs arthroscopic ACL reconstruction at Bombay Hospital, Indore with international fellowship training in sports knee surgery and a structured return-to-sport programme.

Dr. Varun Chouhan, Orthopedic & Joint Replacement Surgeon, Bombay Hospital Indore
Dr. Varun ChouhanOrthopedic & Joint Replacement Surgeon • Bombay Hospital, Indore
Overview

What is ACL reconstruction?

The ACL is a key stabilising ligament of the knee. When it tears — often during a twist, pivot or sports tackle — the knee can feel unstable and give way. ACL reconstruction rebuilds the ligament with a graft (usually your own hamstring or quadriceps tendon) through keyhole surgery.

Dr. Chouhan trained in sports trauma and knee surgery in Porto and in sports medicine and arthroscopy in Lyon. Not every ACL tear needs surgery — active patients and those with instability benefit most, and a structured rehab plan is as important as the operation itself.

Symptoms

When to seek an evaluation:

  • A 'pop' at the time of injury, often during sport
  • The knee giving way or feeling unstable on turning
  • Rapid swelling within hours of the injury
  • Difficulty pivoting, cutting or playing sport confidently
  • A sense the knee cannot be trusted on uneven ground
  • Recurrent instability despite physiotherapy
Causes

Common causes:

  • Sudden twisting or pivoting of the knee
  • Landing awkwardly from a jump
  • Direct blow during contact sport
  • Rapid change of direction ('cutting')
  • Road or fall injuries with a twisting force
Benefits

What patients gain

Stable knee restored

The rebuilt ligament stops the knee giving way.

Keyhole surgery

Arthroscopic technique means small cuts and less pain.

Return to sport

A structured plan guides safe return to pivoting sport.

Protects the knee

Restoring stability helps protect the meniscus and cartilage.

Your own tissue

Grafts from your own tendon integrate naturally.

Expert sports care

Fellowship training in sports knee surgery.

Treatment Process

Your treatment, step by step

DiagnosisExamination and MRI confirm the ACL tear and any meniscus or cartilage damage.
Pre-hab & planningSwelling is settled and motion restored before surgery; graft choice planned.
Arthroscopic surgeryThe ligament is reconstructed through keyhole incisions as a day-care or short-stay case.
Phased rehabA structured programme rebuilds range, strength and control.
Return to sportSport-specific testing guides safe return, usually at 9–12 months.
Recovery Timeline

How recovery typically progresses

Week 0–2Early phaseBrace and crutches as advised; swelling controlled; motion begins.
Week 2–6Motion & controlFull range restored; walking without aids; quadriceps activation.
Month 2–4StrengtheningProgressive strengthening and balance work under physiotherapy.
Month 4–9Sport prepRunning, agility and sport-specific drills introduced.
Month 9–12Return to sportReturn to pivoting sport after strength and stability testing.

Have your X-rays or MRI ready? Share them on WhatsApp for preliminary guidance before you visit.

ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) Reconstruction FAQ

Common questions, answered

Do all ACL tears need surgery?
No. Less active patients without instability can sometimes manage with rehabilitation. Surgery is advised for active people, athletes and anyone whose knee keeps giving way.
Which graft is best?
Most reconstructions use your own hamstring or quadriceps tendon. Dr. Chouhan chooses the graft based on your sport, anatomy and goals.
When can I return to sport?
Return to pivoting sport is usually around 9–12 months, only after strength and stability testing — rushing back increases re-injury risk.
Is ACL surgery done by keyhole?
Yes — it is an arthroscopic (keyhole) procedure, often day-care or short-stay, with small incisions and less pain.
Will my knee be normal again?
Most patients regain a stable knee and return to their sport or activity with a committed rehabilitation programme.
Is it covered by insurance?
Medically indicated ACL reconstruction is covered by most policies; the team assists with pre-authorisation.

Don't let joint pain decide how you live.

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