ACL Reconstruction

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₱ 0
maximum cost
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Things you need to know

1.What is ACL Reconstruction​?
2.Why do you need it?
3.Why cost vary in philippines?
4.Surgery cost range by city
5.Surgery Procedure
6.Recovery
7.Risk and complications
8.FAQ
9.Conclusion

What is ACL Reconstruction​ ?

.

Why do you need ACL Reconstruction​ ?

ACL reconstruction is indicated for:

  • Complete ACL tear:
    • Instability: Knee “giving way” during activities (e.g., pivoting, jumping).
    • Sports injuries: Common in football, basketball, or skiing.
  • Failed non-surgical treatment:
    • Persistent instability despite physiotherapy or bracing.
  • Associated injuries:
    • Meniscal tears, MCL injuries, or cartilage damage (often repaired simultaneously).
  • Active individuals:
    • Athletes or those needing knee stability for daily activities.

The procedure aims to restore knee stability by replacing the torn ACL with a graft (autograft or allograft), allowing return to sports and normal function.

Why Do ACL Reconstruction​ Costs Vary in Philippines?

.

ACL Reconstruction​ Procedure

  • Before Surgery Evaluation:
    • Diagnosis:
      • Physical exam: Lachman test, anterior drawer test to confirm ACL tear.
      • MRI: Assesses ACL tear, meniscus, and cartilage damage.
      • X-ray: Rules out fractures.
      • Blood tests: Blood sugar, clotting profile.
    • Medications: Stop blood thinners (e.g., aspirin) 5–7 days prior if safe.
    • Consent: Risks, including graft failure, are explained.
  • Surgical Techniques:
    • ACL Reconstruction:
      • Performed under general or spinal anesthesia, lasting 1–2 hours.
      • Arthroscopy: Small incisions for a camera (arthroscope) and instruments.
      • Graft harvest:
        • Autograft (patient’s tissue): Hamstring tendon or patellar tendon (bone-patellar tendon-bone, BPTB).
        • Allograft (donor tissue): Less common in India due to availability.
      • Tunnels are drilled in the femur and tibia to anchor the graft in the ACL’s anatomic position.
      • The graft is secured with screws, buttons, or other fixation devices.
      • Meniscal or cartilage repairs may be done simultaneously.
    • Intraoperative Tools:
      • Arthroscope: Visualizes the knee joint.
      • Drill guides: Create bone tunnels.
      • Fixation devices: Secure the graft.
  • After Surgery:
    • Hospital stay: 1–2 days.
    • Knee care: Ice packs, compression bandage, and elevation to reduce swelling.
    • Pain management: Analgesics (e.g., paracetamol, tramadol) for 5–7 days.
    • Instructions: Use crutches for 2–4 weeks, start physiotherapy within 1–2 days, avoid weight-bearing initially.

Recovery After ACL Reconstruction​

  1. Hospital Stay: 1–2 days.
  2. Post-Surgery Care:
    • Pain/Swelling: Peaks at 3–5 days; ice and elevation help; resolves in 2–3 weeks.
    • Mobility: Crutches for 2–4 weeks; partial weight-bearing starts at 1–2 weeks.
    • Physiotherapy: Begins day 1–2; focuses on range of motion (0–90° by 2 weeks), strengthening, and proprioception; continues for 6–12 months.
    • Knee brace: Worn for 4–6 weeks to protect graft.
    • Activity: Avoid pivoting sports for 9–12 months; normal walking in 2–3 months.
  3. Follow-Up:
    • Visits at 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year to monitor healing and strength.
    • Functional tests: At 6–9 months to assess return to sports.

Most resume normal activities in 3–6 months; full recovery (sports) takes 9–12 months. Success rate: 90–95% achieve knee stability; 80–85% return to pre-injury sports level.

Risks and Complications

Surgical Risks:

  • Infection (1–2%): Superficial or deep; treated with antibiotics, may need debridement.
  • Bleeding (1–3%): Hematoma in knee; may need drainage.
  • Nerve injury (<1%): Numbness around incision (saphenous nerve); usually temporary.

Post-Surgery:

  • Graft failure (5–10%): Re-rupture due to early return to sports or poor rehab; may need revision surgery.
  • Stiffness (5–10%): Limited range of motion; managed with aggressive physiotherapy.
  • Anterior knee pain (10–20%, BPTB graft): At patellar tendon site; usually resolves in 6–12 months.
  • Deep vein thrombosis (DVT, 1–3%): Blood clot in leg; prevented with early mobilization, managed with blood thinners.

Long-Term:

  • Osteoarthritis (10–20% over 10 years): Higher risk post-ACL injury; rehab and weight management help.
  • Muscle weakness (5–10%): Persistent quadriceps/hamstring weakness; needs prolonged rehab.

Report severe pain, swelling, fever, or calf pain (possible DVT) promptly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What causes an ACL tear?

Sudden twisting, pivoting, or direct trauma (e.g., sports, accidents); common in high-impact activities.

Can I avoid ACL reconstruction?

Yes, if low activity level: Physiotherapy, bracing for stability; surgery is for active individuals or persistent instability.

Is ACL reconstruction painful?

Moderate pain for 3–7 days post-surgery, managed with medication; discomfort reduces in 2–3 weeks.

How soon can I resume activities?

Walking (with crutches): 1–2 weeks; normal walking: 2–3 months; sports: 9–12 months.

Is ACL reconstruction covered by insurance in India?

Yes, for functional necessity; confirm with your provider.

Signs of complications?

Severe pain, swelling, fever, or calf pain (possible DVT).

Can I return to sports after surgery?

Yes, 80–85% return to pre-injury level by 9–12 months with proper rehab; risk of re-injury remains (5–10%).

Lifestyle changes post-surgery?

Follow physiotherapy, avoid pivoting sports for 9–12 months, maintain healthy weight, and attend follow-ups.

Conclusion

.

Looking for Best Hospitals for ACL Reconstruction​

Note: we are not promoting any hospitals

We do not promote any hospitals. All details are sourced from Google and hospital websites. Please verify independently. Start with your surgery—here’s the list of government, budget, and superspecialty hospitals accredited by the Department of Health (DOH), Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), and Joint Commission International (JCI)

  • click on your city and schedule your surgery now done in good hands.
City Minimum Price (₱) Maximum Price (₱)
Angeles City
Antipolo
Bacolod
Bacoor
Baguio
Butuan
Cagayan de Oro
Caloocan
Cebu City
Dasmariñas
Davao City
General Santos
General Trias
Iligan
Iloilo City
Las Piñas
Makati
Malolos
Manila
Muntinlupa
Parañaque
Pasay
Pasig
Puerto Princesa
Quezon City
San Fernando
San Jose del Monte
Taguig
Valenzuela
Zamboanga City

Disclaimer

This information is sourced from open platforms and is for general awareness only. Costs may vary based on individual cases. Please consult a qualified doctor for medical advice and explore options within your budget before deciding on the procedure.

What is ACL Reconstruction?

ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) reconstruction is a surgical procedure to replace a torn ACL in the knee, a key ligament that stabilizes the joint, often injured during sports or trauma. It restores knee stability and function, enabling a return to active lifestyles. In the Philippines, ACL reconstruction is performed in orthopedic departments at hospitals like St. Luke’s Medical Center, Makati Medical Center, The Medical City, and Philippine General Hospital (PGH), offering high-quality care at relatively affordable costs. Understanding the procedure, costs, recovery, risks, and frequently asked questions (FAQs) is essential for Filipino patients to make informed decisions.

Why Do You Need ACL Reconstruction?

ACL reconstruction is indicated for:

  • Complete ACL Tear:

    • Instability: Knee “giving way” during activities (e.g., pivoting, jumping).

    • Sports Injuries: Common in basketball, football, or volleyball, prevalent in the Philippines due to active sports culture.

  • Failed Non-Surgical Treatment:

    • Persistent instability despite physiotherapy or bracing.

  • Associated Injuries:

    • Meniscal tears, MCL injuries, or cartilage damage (often repaired simultaneously).

  • Active Individuals:

    • Athletes or those needing knee stability for daily activities (e.g., construction workers, fitness enthusiasts).

The procedure aims to restore knee stability by replacing the torn ACL with a graft (autograft or allograft), allowing a return to sports and normal function.

Why Do ACL Reconstruction Costs Vary in the Philippines?

Costs range from ₱150,000 to ₱500,000, based on:

  • Procedure Type:

    • Hamstring autograft: ₱150,000–₱300,000.

    • Bone-patellar tendon-bone (BPTB) graft or combined repairs: ₱300,000–₱500,000.

  • Hospital/Location: Higher costs in Metro Manila hospitals (e.g., St. Luke’s, Makati Medical Center: ₱250,000–₱500,000); lower in public hospitals like PGH (₱50,000–₱150,000, often subsidized by PhilHealth or Z Benefit Package).

  • Surgeon’s Expertise: Experienced orthopedic surgeons charge higher fees.

  • Additional Costs: Anesthesia (₱10,000–₱30,000), hospital stay (₱10,000–₱30,000/day), graft fixation devices (₱20,000–₱40,000), physiotherapy (₱20,000–₱60,000 for 3–6 months).

  • Insurance: PhilHealth covers part (e.g., ₱20,000–₱60,000 depending on case type); private insurance may cover additional costs for functional necessity. Confirm with your provider.

ACL Reconstruction Procedure

Before Surgery Evaluation:

  • Diagnosis:

    • Physical Exam: Lachman test, anterior drawer test to confirm ACL tear.

    • MRI: Assesses ACL tear, meniscus, and cartilage damage.

    • X-ray: Rules out fractures.

    • Blood Tests: Blood sugar, clotting profile to evaluate surgical fitness.

  • Preparation: Stop blood thinners (e.g., aspirin) 5–7 days prior if safe.

  • Consent: Risks, including graft failure, are explained.

Surgical Techniques:

  • ACL Reconstruction:

    • Performed under general or spinal anesthesia, lasting 1–2 hours.

    • Arthroscopy: Small incisions for a camera (arthroscope) and instruments.

    • Graft Harvest:

      • Autograft (patient’s tissue): Hamstring tendon or patellar tendon (bone-patellar tendon-bone, BPTB).

      • Allograft (donor tissue): Less common in the Philippines due to limited availability.

    • Tunnels are drilled in the femur and tibia to anchor the graft in the ACL’s anatomic position.

    • The graft is secured with screws, buttons, or other fixation devices.

    • Meniscal or cartilage repairs may be done simultaneously.

  • Intraoperative Tools:

    • Arthroscope: Visualizes the knee joint.

    • Drill guides: Create bone tunnels.

    • Fixation devices: Secure the graft.

After Surgery:

  • Hospital Stay: 1–2 days.

  • Knee Care: Ice packs, compression bandage, and elevation to reduce swelling.

  • Pain Management: Analgesics (e.g., paracetamol, tramadol) for 5–7 days.

  • Instructions: Use crutches for 2–4 weeks, start physiotherapy within 1–2 days, avoid weight-bearing initially.

Recovery After ACL Reconstruction

  • Hospital Stay: 1–2 days.

  • Post-Surgery Care:

    • Pain/Swelling: Peaks at 3–5 days; ice and elevation help; resolves in 2–3 weeks.

    • Mobility: Crutches for 2–4 weeks; partial weight-bearing starts at 1–2 weeks.

    • Physiotherapy: Begins day 1–2; focuses on range of motion (0–90° by 2 weeks), strengthening, and proprioception; continues for 6–12 months.

    • Knee Brace: Worn for 4–6 weeks to protect the graft.

    • Activity: Avoid pivoting sports for 9–12 months; normal walking in 2–3 months.

  • Follow-Up:

    • Visits at 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year to monitor healing and strength.

    • Functional tests: At 6–9 months to assess return to sports.

  • Most resume normal activities in 3–6 months; full recovery (sports) takes 9–12 months. Success rate: 90–95% achieve knee stability; 80–85% return to pre-injury sports level.

Risks and Complications

  • Surgical Risks:

    • Infection (1–2%): Superficial or deep; treated with antibiotics, may need debridement.

    • Bleeding (1–3%): Hematoma in knee; may need drainage.

    • Nerve Injury (<1%): Numbness around incision (saphenous nerve); usually temporary.

  • Post-Surgery:

    • Graft Failure (5–10%): Re-rupture due to early return to sports or poor rehab; may need revision surgery.

    • Stiffness (5–10%): Limited range of motion; managed with aggressive physiotherapy.

    • Anterior Knee Pain (10–20%, BPTB graft): At patellar tendon site; usually resolves in 6–12 months.

    • Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT, 1–3%): Blood clot in leg; prevented with early mobilization, managed with blood thinners.

  • Long-Term:

    • Osteoarthritis (10–20% over 10 years): Higher risk post-ACL injury; rehab and weight management help.

    • Muscle Weakness (5–10%): Persistent quadriceps/hamstring weakness; needs prolonged rehab.

  • Report severe pain, swelling, fever, or calf pain (possible DVT) promptly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What causes an ACL tear?
Sudden twisting, pivoting, or direct trauma (e.g., basketball, football, accidents); common in high-impact activities.

Can I avoid ACL reconstruction?
Yes, if low activity level: Physiotherapy, bracing for stability; surgery is recommended for active individuals or persistent instability.

Is ACL reconstruction painful?
Moderate pain for 3–7 days post-surgery, managed with medication; discomfort reduces in 2–3 weeks.

How soon can I resume activities?
Walking (with crutches): 1–2 weeks; normal walking: 2–3 months; sports: 9–12 months.

Is ACL reconstruction covered by insurance in the Philippines?
PhilHealth covers part (e.g., ₱20,000–₱60,000); private insurance may cover additional costs for functional necessity. Confirm with your provider.

What are the signs of complications?
Severe pain, swelling, fever, or calf pain (possible DVT) require immediate attention.

Can I return to sports after surgery?
Yes, 80–85% return to pre-injury level by 9–12 months with proper rehab; risk of re-injury remains (5–10%).

What lifestyle changes are needed post-surgery?
Follow physiotherapy, avoid pivoting sports for 9–12 months, maintain a healthy weight, and attend follow-ups.

Conclusion

ACL reconstruction is a reliable procedure to restore knee stability and function, with a high success rate for active individuals, including athletes. The Philippines’ top hospitals (St. Luke’s, Makati Medical Center, PGH) provide expert care at costs ranging from ₱150,000 to ₱500,000, often partially covered by PhilHealth or private insurance. Understanding the procedure, costs, recovery, risks, and FAQs helps patients approach surgery confidently. Consult an orthopedic surgeon for personalized guidance and optimal outcomes.

Looking for Best Hospitals for ACL Reconstruction

Note: we are not promoting any hospitals

We do not promote any hospitals. All details are sourced from Google and hospital websites. Please verify independently. Start with your surgery—here’s the list of government, budget, and superspecialty hospitals accredited by the Department of Health (DOH), Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), and Joint Commission International (JCI)

  • click on your city and schedule your surgery now done in good hands.
City Minimum Price (₱) Maximum Price (₱)
Angeles City
100,000
350,000
Antipolo
100,000
350,000
Bacolod
100,000
350,000
Bacoor
100,000
250,000
Baguio
100,000
350,000
Butuan
100,000
250,000
Cagayan de Oro
100,000
350,000
Caloocan
100,000
250,000
Cebu City
150,000
500,000
Dasmariñas
100,000
250,000
Davao City
150,000
500,000
General Santos
100,000
350,000
General Trias
100,000
250,000
Iligan
100,000
350,000
Iloilo City
100,000
350,000
Las Piñas
100,000
350,000
Makati
150,000
500,000
Malolos
100,000
250,000
Manila
150,000
500,000
Muntinlupa
100,000
350,000
Parañaque
100,000
350,000
Pasay
100,000
350,000
Pasig
150,000
500,000
Puerto Princesa
100,000
350,000
Quezon City
150,000
500,000
San Fernando
100,000
250,000
San Jose del Monte
100,000
250,000
Taguig
150,000
500,000
Valenzuela
100,000
250,000
Zamboanga City
100,000
350,000

Disclaimer

This information is sourced from open platforms and is for general awareness only. Costs may vary based on individual cases. Please consult a qualified doctor for medical advice and explore options within your budget before deciding on the procedure.

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