Libby's ACL semitondinosus/gracilis reconstruction

by Libby Babington
(Hartford, Alabama USA)

I had right ACL reconstruction using the quadruple semitendinosus/gracilis autograft method 8 weeks ago, I also had severe meniscus damage that was repaired, and arthritic changes as well due to the 10-year wait on my part to have surgery. I am 47 years old, and injured my knee 10 years ago riding motocross. I could not afford surgery at the time and wore a brace for 10 years. Over the 10 years, my knee became progressively more unstable, and it made my job as a Paramedic/Firefighter extremely difficult because my knee would "buckle" unexpectedly. I sought several opinions before having surgery, and my local orthopedic doctor would agree to do nothing but a total knee replacement. I have gained 100 pounds since this injury due to lack of activity, and wanted to be able to not only work, but be active again in sports.

I saw Dr. Dugas at Andrew's Sports Medicine in Birmingham, Al, and he was convinced that I would do very well following my surgery. HE WAS RIGHT! I have had no pain except for soreness at my incision site, was off of crutches in 4 days, and my rehab is progressing better than expected. My quad on the surgery side has some atrophy, but is strengthening daily. I had full extension 2 days after surgery with no pain, and my ROM is 130. I have had a very pleasing experience with this surgery, and wish that it had been available 10 years ago! I was out of my locked brace at 6 weeks, and am now wearing a DonJoy custom brace again. I can feel a tremendous difference in the stability of my knee, and no pain! I was prescribed a TENS unit for pain and muscle stim, and it really made a difference in my recovery. I took 1 day of Darvocet the 1st post-op day just in case, and needed nothing but ice and the TENS unit after that. I would highly recommend this surgery and this surgeon to anybody! While I am not back to regular duty yet, I am on track for that in 2 more weeks with bracing and some restrictions.