✦ Combined Ligament Surgery

ACL & PCL Reconstruction

Q: How are combined cruciate tears diagnosed?

Clinical stress testing combined with high-resolution MRI confirms tears in both cruciates and identifies any meniscal or cartilage injury.

Q: Is two-ligament reconstruction safer in stages?

Single-stage simultaneous reconstruction is preferred and well-established. It avoids second anaesthesia and allows synchronised rehabilitation.

Q: Will I need a brace afterwards?

Yes — a hinged knee brace protects the reconstruction during early healing. Brace use typically continues for 6–8 weeks postoperatively.

Q: Can I bend my knee fully again?

Yes — most patients regain full symmetrical knee bending by 4–5 months, supported by progressive physiotherapy and a home exercise programme.

Both cruciate ligaments are rebuilt arthroscopically using tendon grafts in one operation — restoring complete front-to-back knee stability after high-energy multi-ligament injuries.

2–3 Hours PROCEDURE

1–2 Days HOSPITAL STAY

>90% SUCCESS RATE

6–9 Months RECOVERY

What is ACL & PCL Reconstruction?

Combined Anterior and Posterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction is an advanced arthroscopic procedure performed when both primary stabilising ligaments of the knee are torn, typically following high-energy sports collisions, falls from height or road accidents. Both ligaments are simultaneously replaced using hamstring autografts, patellar or quadriceps tendons, fixed within precisely drilled bone tunnels using interference screws, suspensory buttons or hybrid systems. Dr. Hithesh performs combined cruciate reconstruction in Hyderabad through minimally invasive techniques, restoring rotational and translational knee stability and returning patients to demanding sports.

Recommended for active patients diagnosed with simultaneous ACL and PCL tears confirmed by clinical examination and MRI, where the resulting instability prevents return to sport, occupational duties or routine living.

How the Procedure Works

Diagnostic Arthroscopy

Tiny portals allow inspection of both cruciate ligaments and assessment of any associated meniscal or chondral damage.

Graft Harvest

Hamstring, quadriceps or patellar tendon autografts are harvested and prepared for ACL and PCL replacement during surgery.

Tunnel Preparation

Femoral and tibial tunnels are drilled at the precise anatomic footprints of both cruciate ligaments for accurate placement.

Graft Fixation

Both grafts are passed and fixed under tension using interference screws or suspensory devices, restoring native joint mechanics.

Closure & Bracing

Portals are closed with sutures; a hinged knee brace is applied; structured rehabilitation protocol begins immediately afterwards.

Outcomes

2–3 HoursDURATION

1–2 DaysHOSPITAL STAY

>90%SUCCESS RATE

6–9 MonthsFULL RECOVERY

Who Needs This Treatment?

→Restores complete anterior, posterior and rotational stability of the knee
→Stops the recurrent giving-way episodes that disable daily activity
→Allows planned return to high-demand sports including pivoting disciplines
→Protects menisci and articular cartilage from progressive secondary damage
→Performed entirely arthroscopically with very small skin incisions
→Strong modern fixation suits high-demand professional and recreational athletes

Combined cruciate injuries demand precision at every step — anatomic tunnels, strong fixation, balanced rehabilitation. Get those right and even high-demand athletes return to the field with a knee they can rely on.

— — Dr. Bathini Hithesh, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, Trauma & Joint Replacement Specialist, Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

How are combined cruciate tears diagnosed?+

Is two-ligament reconstruction safer in stages?+

Will I need a brace afterwards?+

Can I bend my knee fully again?+

Not sure which treatment is right for you?

Book a consultation with Dr. Bathini Hithesh and get a personalised treatment plan.

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