What is ACL Tear (ACL Reconstruction)?
The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is a key ligament that keeps the knee stable. It often tears during sports with sudden twisting, stopping or landing.
A torn ACL does not heal well by itself. Arthroscopic reconstruction replaces it with a graft through small cuts, followed by physiotherapy to rebuild strength.
Symptoms of ACL
- A pop in the knee at the time of injury
- Rapid swelling of the knee
- Knee giving way or feeling unstable
- Pain while walking or turning
- Reduced range of movement
Noticing these symptoms? Talk to a surgeon for free.
Talk to an expertCauses and risk factors
- Sudden twisting or pivoting of the knee
- Awkward landing from a jump
- Sudden stopping or change of direction
- Direct blow to the knee
- Road traffic or fall injuries
How it is diagnosed
- Physical examination of knee stability
- MRI of the knee
- X-ray to rule out fractures
Arthroscopic ACL reconstruction: what to expect
- 1
Before surgery
Swelling is allowed to settle and movement is regained with physiotherapy. MRI and fitness tests are done.
- 2
During surgery
Through small cuts, a camera guides the surgeon to replace the torn ligament with a tendon graft.
- 3
Anaesthesia and duration
Usually done under spinal or general anaesthesia. The procedure typically takes 60-120 minutes.
- 4
After surgery
You start walking with support and begin physiotherapy early. Most patients go home in one to two days.
Benefits of the modern approach
- Small cuts and smaller scars
- Restores knee stability for most patients
- Usually less pain than open surgery
- Helps protect the knee from further damage
ACL surgery cost
The cost depends on the procedure chosen, the hospital, the room category, anaesthesia, tests and medicines, and your insurance cover. Your TaCa Dost shares the full package upfront, before you decide.
Insurance
We check your policy and handle the cashless paperwork.
Insurance helpEMI options*
Pay in easy monthly instalments, subject to lender approval.
EMI detailsTaCa Possibilities Card
Members pay Ayushman package rates at partner hospitals.
See the cardRecovery
- Hospital stay
- 1-2 days
- Procedure time
- 60-120 minutes
- Back to routine
- 2-3 weeks (desk work)
Recovery tips
- Follow your physiotherapy plan closely
- Use crutches or a brace as advised
- Ice and elevate the knee to reduce swelling
- Return to sports only when your surgeon clears you
Risks include infection, stiffness, graft failure and blood clots; your orthopaedic surgeon will explain these and the rehabilitation needed.
Why choose TaCa?
- Free surgeon consultationTalk to an experienced surgeon before you decide.
- Dedicated TaCa DostOne case manager from first call to follow-up.
- Insurance paperwork handledPre-authorisation, documents and claim filing.
- EMI options*Spread the cost into easy monthly payments.
- Short-stay surgeryMinimally invasive care; many patients go home the same or next day.
Our surgeons
VerifiedDr Nilesh Dehariya
MBBS, MS (General Surgeon)
VerifiedDr Abhay Singhal
MBBS, MS (General Surgeon)
VerifiedDr Chandrakant Kar
MBBS, MS, MCh (Urologist)
ACL: frequently asked questions
What does ACL reconstruction cost?
Cost depends on the city, hospital category, room type, surgical technique, tests needed and your insurance cover. Your TaCa Dost shares a clear estimate after the surgeon’s consultation, and EMI options are available.
Is ACL reconstruction covered by insurance?
Most health insurance policies cover medically necessary surgery, subject to policy terms and waiting periods. Your TaCa Dost checks your eligibility and handles the cashless or reimbursement paperwork for you.
How long does recovery take?
Most patients return to desk work in two to three weeks. Return to sports usually takes several months of physiotherapy.
Is ACL surgery painful?
Anaesthesia keeps you comfortable during surgery. Pain and swelling afterwards are expected and managed with medicines, ice and rest.
Can I avoid ACL surgery?
Some less active people manage with physiotherapy and a brace. Surgery is usually advised if the knee keeps giving way.
When should I see a doctor?
See an orthopaedic doctor after a knee injury with swelling, instability or difficulty walking.
This page is for general information and does not replace a consultation. Your surgeon will advise on the right treatment for you. Content reviewed by the TaCa clinical team.