Final answer:
A reamer or drill is used immediately following the insertion of the tibial guide in an ACL reconstruction to create tunnels in the bone for the graft placement, as part of the arthroscopic surgery process.
Step-by-step explanation:
Immediately following the insertion of the tibial guide in an ACL reconstruction, a reamer or drill is typically used. The surgeon utilizes this device to create tunnels in the bone, which are essential for securing the graft that replaces the torn anterior cruciate ligament. This process is a part of arthroscopic surgery, a minimally invasive procedure that allows for the visualization and treatment of joint injuries, while also facilitating faster recovery due to smaller incisions and less trauma to the surrounding tissues.
During the ACL reconstruction, the surgeon drills holes at the attachment points on the tibia and femur, after which the patellar ligament graft—with bone plugs attached at both ends—is inserted into the bone tunnels. The bone-to-bone healing at the graft ends promotes swift and robust recovery, enabling the individual to return to normal activities more quickly than with older surgical techniques.