Final answer:
ACL reconstruction is a surgical procedure aimed at restoring the anterolateral stability of the knee by replacing the damaged ACL, typically with a portion of the patellar ligament, to prevent hyperextension and ensure stable movement.
Step-by-step explanation:
An ACL reconstruction is performed to repair the anterolateral stability of the knee. The anterior cruciate ligament, commonly known as the ACL, is an intracapsular ligament that extends from the anterior, superior surface of the tibia to the inner aspect of the lateral condyle of the femur. Its primary role is to resist hyperextension and stabilize the knee during movement.
Detailed reconstruction procedures often involve arthroscopic surgery, allowing for less invasive intervention and shorter recovery times. The replacement technique typically uses a piece of the patellar ligament, inserted into pre-drilled holes in the femur and tibia, where the cruciate ligament normally attaches. This graft method leads to rapid and robust healing, enhancing stability and allowing quicker return to normal knee function.