What is a common surgical procedure to repair a torn ACL?

ACL reconstruction is a common surgical procedure specifically aimed at repairing a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in the knee. This procedure typically involves replacing the torn ACL with a graft, which can be taken from the patient’s own body (autograft) or from a donor (allograft). The primary goal of ACL reconstruction is to restore stability to the knee joint, allowing for a return to normal function and activity levels, especially for those involved in sports or rigorous physical activities.

In the context of knee injuries, ACL tears are prevalent and often require surgical intervention for effective recovery. During the ACL reconstruction procedure, the surgeon creates small incisions around the knee to access the ligament and then tunnels through the bone to secure the graft in place. This method not only helps in repairing the torn ligament but also aids in rebuilding the knee's strength and stability.

The other options listed, while related to knee injuries, do not directly address the repair of a torn ACL. Meniscus repair focuses on the cartilage of the knee, tendon grafting is a general term that may refer to the use of grafts for various procedures, and external fixation is a method used for stabilizing fractures but is not typically employed for ACL repairs. Thus, ACL reconstruction is the