Can I have an MRI after ACL reconstruction?

MRI is critical in evaluation of the post-operative knee, and the ACL reconstruction patient is no exception. Common indications for utilizing MRI in the post-operative ACL patient include acute reinjury, persistent instability, limitation of motion, or simply persistent pain.

Does ACL tear show on MRI?

An MRI can show the extent of an ACL injury and signs of damage to other tissues in the knee, including the cartilage. Ultrasound. Using sound waves to visualize internal structures, ultrasound may be used to check for injuries in the ligaments, tendons and muscles of the knee.

Can a partial ACL tear heal on its own?

The ACL cannot heal on its own because there is no blood supply to this ligament. Surgery is usually required for athletes because the ACL is needed in order to safely perform the sharp movements that are required in sports.

Does a partial ACL tear pop?

Many patients noted that they remember hearing or feeling a “pop” in their knee at the time of the injury. Typically the knee will swell, feel unstable, and be too painful to bear weight. For some, a mild ACL injury may be treated with rest and physical therapy.

When does a partial ACL tear require surgery?

Treatment of an ACL tear is most dependent on how much knee instability is caused by the injury. Therefore, there is no critical cutoff in terms of how much of the ACL is torn. Most surgeons base a decision on how much instability the injury has caused. If the knee is unstable, then surgery is recommended.

Do you need a MRI to diagnose an ACL tear?

There are some injuries, like ACL tears, that don’t always need an MRI . Often the history and physical exam can prove that a patient tore his or her ACL without the MRI. In other situations, we might need the MRI for an ACL tear.

Does a partial tear of the ACL always require surgery?

ACL injuries can either be complete or partial . When there is a partial ACL tear, a difficult decision about surgery needs to be made. An ACL reconstruction involves significant rehabilitation and other operative risks. Deciding when ACL reconstruction is necessary can be a difficult problem, especially when the ACL is only partially torn.

What is the treatment for a partial thickness tear of the ACL?

The better method of assessing a partial ACL injury is based on the aforementioned symptoms and examination findings. If non-surgical treatment is preferred, you will likely be given a brace and crutches to protect your knee. Physical therapy for rehabilitation will be started once the swelling improves.