ACL_Reconstruction_Surgery_Delhi_Guide
                     Dr. Shekhar Srivastav
Delhi Arthroscopy | Knee & Shoulder Specialist
ACL Reconstruction Surgery in Delhi
A patient-friendly 3,000-word guide to hospital selection, arthroscopic reconstruction, grafts,
rehabilitation, recovery and FAQs
Prime Speciality Clinic Hospital
182, 1st Floor, Jagriti Enclave, Vikas Marg, Delhi-110092 HOD (DITO), Sant Parmanand Hospital
Plot no-1, 2 & 3, Park Area, Yamuna Bazaar, Delhi-110006
Featured source article: The Best Hospital for ACL Reconstruction Surgery in Delhi
Knee & ACL — simplified educational illustration
Femur
ACL
Articular
cartilage
Tibia
A patient facing an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear is often dealing with more than pain. There may be
swelling, instability, uncertainty about returning to sport, difficulty climbing stairs or walking confidently, and
questions about whether surgery is necessary. Choosing the right orthopaedic team and hospital can therefore be
as important as understanding the operation itself.
This guide has been prepared around the information published by Delhi Arthroscopy on ACL reconstruction in
Delhi and is designed as an educational resource for patients considering evaluation and treatment. It explains the
ACL, common symptoms, diagnosis, when reconstruction may be considered, what arthroscopic surgery involves,
graft choices, hospital and surgeon selection, rehabilitation, risks, recovery milestones, costs and frequently asked
questions.
1. Understanding the ACL and why it matters
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The anterior cruciate ligament is one of the major stabilizing ligaments inside the knee. It helps control forward
movement of the shin bone relative to the thigh bone and contributes to rotational stability. The ACL is particularly
important during running, jumping, cutting, pivoting and sudden changes of direction.
ACL injuries commonly occur during sports, but they are not limited to athletes. A sudden twist while the foot is
planted, an awkward landing, a collision, a fall, or a rapid change of direction can injure the ligament. Some people
remember a popping sensation at the time of injury. Swelling can develop quickly, and the knee may subsequently
feel unstable or as though it may “give way.”
An ACL tear can occur alone or together with other injuries, including meniscus tears, cartilage damage or injuries
to other knee ligaments. That is why a complete assessment is important before treatment is selected.
2. Common symptoms of an ACL tear
Symptoms vary according to the severity of the injury and whether other structures are involved. Common features
include sudden knee pain, swelling, a popping sensation, restricted movement, difficulty bearing weight and a
feeling of instability. Some people are able to walk after the initial injury but notice that the knee gives way during
turning, stairs, running or sports.
Persistent instability deserves medical assessment. Repeated episodes of the knee giving way can interfere with
daily life and may place additional stress on other structures in the joint. A specialist assessment can help
determine whether rehabilitation alone, activity modification or reconstruction should be considered.
3. Diagnosis: examination, imaging and functional assessment
Diagnosis begins with a detailed history and physical examination. An orthopaedic or sports-injury specialist may
perform ligament-specific tests and assess swelling, range of motion, strength, alignment and stability.
MRI is commonly used when the clinician needs to assess the ACL and look for associated meniscal, cartilage or
other soft-tissue injuries. The information from examination and imaging should be considered together rather than
treating an MRI report in isolation.
A good treatment plan should be individualized. Age, occupation, sporting goals, knee stability, associated injuries,
previous surgery, general health and rehabilitation capacity can all influence the decision.
4. When is ACL reconstruction considered?
Not every ACL tear automatically requires surgery. Some people with partial injuries or stable knees may be
managed with structured physiotherapy and activity modification. Reconstruction may be considered when a
patient has persistent instability, a complete tear with functional demands, associated injuries requiring surgery, or
a strong need to return to pivoting sports or physically demanding activities.
The decision should be made after a clinical evaluation. A patient should understand the potential benefits,
limitations, alternatives and risks before proceeding.
5. Why arthroscopic ACL reconstruction is commonly used
Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive technique in which a small camera is introduced into the knee through a small
portal. Additional instruments can be introduced through other small portals. The surgeon can inspect the joint,
address associated problems and reconstruct the ACL using a graft.
The Delhi Arthroscopy website describes arthroscopy as a keyhole approach using small incisions and specialized
instruments. The goal is to provide accurate access to the joint while limiting disruption to surrounding tissues.
Modern ACL reconstruction aims to place the graft in an anatomical position and secure it appropriately. Graft
fixation may involve devices such as interference screws or suspensory fixation systems, depending on the
surgical technique and graft used.
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6. The ACL reconstruction procedure: a patient-friendly overview
ACL Reconstruction — simplified concept
Graft
Bone tunnels
Fixation
devices secure
the graft.
ACL reconstruction is performed under anesthesia. The knee is examined arthroscopically, and associated injuries
such as a meniscus tear may be treated when appropriate.
A graft is prepared. Common graft options include hamstring tendon, patellar tendon and quadriceps tendon
autografts; in selected situations, an allograft may be considered. The best graft depends on patient age, activity,
sport, anatomy, previous surgery, surgeon preference and other clinical factors.
Bone tunnels are created in the femur and tibia at positions intended to reproduce the functional attachment sites
of the native ACL. The graft is then passed through these tunnels and fixed securely. The surgeon checks stability
and range of motion before completing the procedure.
The exact technique can vary substantially. Patients should ask their surgeon which graft is recommended, why it
has been selected, how it will be fixed and whether any associated meniscus or cartilage injury needs treatment.
7. Choosing a hospital for ACL reconstruction in Delhi
Hospital selection should go beyond a marketing label such as “best.” Patients can compare the surgeon’s relevant
experience, availability of arthroscopy facilities, anesthesia and operating-room support, imaging access, inpatient
care when required, physiotherapy services, emergency support and continuity of follow-up.
The Delhi Arthroscopy article identifies Sant Parmanand Hospital as a leading destination for ACL reconstruction
and describes access to arthroscopy technology, sports-injury services and rehabilitation support. The article also
highlights a patient-centered approach and individualized care.
For patients evaluating a facility, it is sensible to ask:
• Who will perform the surgery?
• How frequently does the surgeon perform ACL reconstruction?
• What graft options are available?
• Is MRI and other imaging available when needed?
• Is physiotherapy coordinated with the surgical team?
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• How are postoperative complications handled?
• What is the expected follow-up schedule?
• What is included in the treatment estimate?
8. Dr. Shekhar Srivastav and Delhi Arthroscopy
The Delhi Arthroscopy website presents Dr. Shekhar Srivastav as an orthopaedic and arthroscopy surgeon with a
focus on knee and shoulder surgery, including ACL reconstruction. The website identifies him with the Department
of Orthopedics at Delhi Institute of Trauma and Orthopaedics (DITO), Sant Parmanand Hospital, and describes
extensive experience in arthroscopic and joint procedures.
Because credentials and professional affiliations can change, patients should verify current appointments,
qualifications, hospital affiliations and consultation availability directly with the clinic or hospital before making a
treatment decision.
A specialist relationship is not only about the operation. Good communication matters. Patients should feel able to
discuss their activity goals, concerns about pain, work requirements, travel plans, sports expectations and
rehabilitation commitment.
9. Rehabilitation is a major part of ACL recovery
Surgery is only one stage of ACL treatment. Rehabilitation is essential for restoring motion, strength, balance,
neuromuscular control and confidence.
Early rehabilitation commonly focuses on reducing swelling, regaining knee extension, gradually restoring flexion,
activating the quadriceps and learning safe walking mechanics. Later stages emphasize progressive strength
training, balance and proprioception, movement control, running preparation and sport-specific drills when
appropriate.
Return to sport should not be based only on the number of weeks since surgery. Functional testing, strength,
movement quality, psychological readiness and the demands of the sport all matter. A structured program may
take many months.
10. A typical recovery pathway
Typical Recovery Roadmap
Early Strength Running Return
swelling • motion muscle • control progressive loading testing • clearance
Timelines are individual; sport return requires clinical and functional clearance.
Every patient progresses differently, but recovery can be viewed in stages.
Early phase: swelling and pain are controlled while the patient works on safe mobility and restoration of range of
motion.
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Strength phase: progressive exercises target the quadriceps, hamstrings, hip muscles and calf, with increasing
load as tolerated.
Control phase: balance, coordination and single-leg control become more important. The patient gradually
performs more demanding functional tasks.
Running and sport preparation: once appropriate strength and control have been achieved, running and
sport-specific exercises may be introduced.
Return-to-sport phase: the patient completes objective testing and receives clearance from the treating team
before returning to high-risk pivoting activities.
The original Delhi Arthroscopy article notes that many patients may resume normal activities in roughly 6–8 weeks
and sports in approximately 6–9 months, but these are broad estimates rather than guarantees. Timelines vary and
should be individualized by the treating surgeon and physiotherapist.
11. Pain, swelling and daily activities after surgery
It is normal for the knee to experience pain and swelling after ACL reconstruction. The care team may prescribe
medication, recommend ice or other measures, and provide instructions for wound care and exercise.
Walking often begins with assistance according to the surgeon’s protocol. Crutches may be used for a period that
depends on the procedure and associated injuries. Driving, office work, stair use and household activities should
be resumed only when the patient can safely perform them and has received appropriate medical guidance.
12. Graft choices: why one option is not right for everyone
A graft is used to create the new ACL. Autografts use the patient’s own tissue. Common choices include
hamstring, patellar tendon and quadriceps tendon grafts. Each has advantages and disadvantages.
Hamstring grafts can avoid a patellar tendon harvest site but may affect hamstring strength during recovery.
Patellar tendon grafts have a long history of use and strong fixation characteristics, but anterior knee discomfort
can occur. Quadriceps tendon grafts are another option and may be useful in selected primary or revision cases.
Allografts use donor tissue and may be considered in specific circumstances, but patient age, activity level and
surgeon judgment are important when evaluating graft selection.
13. Possible risks and complications
All surgery carries risks. ACL reconstruction can be associated with infection, bleeding, blood clots, stiffness,
persistent pain, numbness, graft failure, instability, problems at the graft harvest site, or injury to surrounding
structures. Some patients may develop difficulty regaining full extension or may require additional treatment.
The risk profile depends on the patient, surgical technique and associated injuries. Following the postoperative
plan, attending follow-up appointments and promptly reporting unusual symptoms can support safe recovery.
Urgent medical attention may be appropriate for severe or increasing pain, significant calf swelling, chest pain,
breathing difficulty, high fever, wound drainage, or other symptoms that the treating team has identified as
concerning.
14. The role of meniscus and cartilage treatment
ACL tears frequently coexist with other knee injuries. A meniscus tear can cause pain, locking or clicking, while
cartilage injury may affect long-term joint health.
During arthroscopy, the surgeon can inspect the menisci and cartilage. When clinically appropriate, meniscus
repair or other procedures may be performed during the same operation. The presence of associated injuries can
change rehabilitation restrictions and recovery timelines.
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15. Cost and insurance considerations in Delhi
ACL reconstruction cost varies. Important factors include the hospital, surgeon, graft type, implants or fixation
devices, anesthesia, investigations, room category, associated procedures and rehabilitation.
Patients should request a written estimate and ask what is included. It is also useful to confirm whether the insurer
requires preauthorization and whether specific implants, physiotherapy sessions, diagnostic tests or follow-up visits
are covered.
The Delhi Arthroscopy article describes pricing as transparent and states that insurance support may be available.
Because insurance policies and hospital packages change, patients should confirm current financial details directly
with the hospital and insurer.
16. Why patient education matters
A successful ACL journey is easier when the patient understands the plan. Before surgery, patients should know
the diagnosis, treatment alternatives, graft recommendation, expected rehabilitation, possible restrictions and
warning signs.
A clear written plan can reduce anxiety. It can also help family members understand why physiotherapy
appointments, home exercises, rest periods and gradual progression are necessary.
17. Questions to ask your ACL surgeon
Before deciding on surgery, consider asking:
1. Is my ACL completely or partially torn?
2. Do I have a meniscus or cartilage injury?
3. Do I need surgery, or could rehabilitation be reasonable?
4. Which graft do you recommend and why?
5. What fixation method will be used?
6. What will my first two weeks look like?
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ACL Reconstruction — simplified concept
Graft
Bone tunnels
Fixation
devices secure
the graft.
7. When can I return to work and driving?
8. When can I start running?
9. What tests are required before sports clearance?
10. What complications should make me contact the hospital
urgently?
Typical Recovery Roadmap
Early Strength Running Return
swelling • motion muscle • control progressive loading testing • clearance
Timelines are individual; sport return requires clinical and functional clearance.
11. What is included in the estimated treatment cost?
12. Who will coordinate my physiotherapy?
18. Prehabilitation: preparing before surgery
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If surgery is planned, the period before the operation can be useful. Prehabilitation may focus on reducing swelling,
restoring knee extension, improving flexion and building strength without provoking instability. A calm, mobile knee
can make the early postoperative phase easier.
Patients should not design a demanding exercise program independently after a significant ligament injury. A
physiotherapist or surgeon can identify safe activities and explain which movements should be avoided. The aim is
not to “train through” the injury but to arrive at surgery in the best practical condition.
19. Nutrition, sleep and practical preparation
Recovery requires more than exercises. Adequate nutrition, hydration, sleep and a sensible home setup can make
the early weeks easier. Patients may arrange help with meals, transportation and household tasks. Frequently
used items can be placed within easy reach, and a safe route for walking should be planned.
Patients should also tell the surgical team about medicines, supplements, allergies and other medical conditions.
Medication instructions before and after surgery must come from the treating team, particularly for drugs that affect
bleeding.
20. Returning to work, driving and travel
The return to work depends on the job. Desk-based work may resume earlier than work requiring prolonged
standing, climbing, squatting or heavy lifting. Driving should wait until the patient can safely control the vehicle and
has been cleared according to the treating surgeon’s advice and local requirements.
Travel plans should be discussed before surgery. Long journeys can be challenging soon after an operation
because of mobility restrictions and the risk of blood clots. The treating team can advise when travel is appropriate
and what precautions may be required.
21. What makes a comprehensive ACL program valuable?
The strongest ACL pathway connects diagnosis, surgery and rehabilitation rather than treating them as separate
events. A patient benefits when the surgeon understands the patient’s activity goals and the physiotherapy team
understands the surgical procedure and restrictions.
Delhi Arthroscopy’s published material emphasizes advanced arthroscopic techniques, individualized assessment
and rehabilitation support. Sant Parmanand Hospital is described in the source article as providing orthopaedic,
sports-injury and rehabilitation services.
The goal should always be a stable, functional knee with a safe return to the patient’s desired level of activity—not
simply completing an operation.
22. When to seek specialist assessment
If a knee remains unstable after an injury, repeatedly gives way, swells after activity, or prevents normal
movement, specialist evaluation is appropriate. Athletes with a suspected ACL tear should avoid returning to
cutting and pivoting sports until they have been assessed.
Early assessment does not necessarily mean immediate surgery. It means understanding the injury and creating a
safe plan.
23. Final perspective
Choosing an ACL reconstruction team in Delhi is a decision that should be based on relevant surgical expertise,
hospital infrastructure, rehabilitation support, communication and individualized care. The source article on Delhi
Arthroscopy highlights Dr. Shekhar Srivastav and Sant Parmanand Hospital as a destination for ACL
reconstruction and describes arthroscopic technology, sports-injury services and rehabilitation support.
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For patients considering treatment, the next step is a personal clinical consultation. Bring MRI images and reports,
previous medical records and a clear description of your symptoms and activity goals. A qualified orthopaedic
specialist can then determine whether reconstruction is appropriate, discuss graft choices and explain the
expected recovery pathway.
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Important medical disclaimer
This guide is for general education and does not replace examination, imaging review or individualized medical
advice. Recovery times, surgical indications, graft selection, risks and costs vary between patients. The information
and claims about services, professional affiliations and facilities should be verified directly with the clinic and
hospital before treatment.
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Contact and appointment information
Prime Speciality Clinic
182, 1st Floor, Jagriti Enclave, Vikas Marg, Delhi-110092
Hospital:
HOD (DITO), Sant Parmanand Hospital
Plot no-1, 2 & 3, Park Area, Yamuna Bazaar, Delhi-110006
Website: https://delhiarthroscopy.com/
Featured article:
https://delhiarthroscopy.com/blog/2025/05/05/the-best-hospital-for-acl-reconstruction-surgery-in-delhi/
Phone: +91-9971192233
Email: [email protected]
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is ACL reconstruction?
It is surgery that replaces a damaged ACL with a graft to restore stability and support knee function.
Does every ACL tear need surgery?
No. Treatment depends on symptoms, stability, associated injuries and activity goals.
How long does ACL surgery take?
The source article states that ACL reconstruction commonly takes about 1–2 hours, although the duration can
change when additional procedures are required.
Can I walk after surgery?
Many patients begin walking with support early after surgery, but weight-bearing and brace instructions depend on
the surgical procedure and the surgeon’s protocol.
When can I return to sports?
A broad estimate in the source article is around 6–9 months, but return should be based on rehabilitation progress
and objective readiness rather than the calendar alone.
Is physiotherapy necessary?
Yes. Rehabilitation is essential to restore motion, strength, balance, movement control and confidence.
How much does ACL surgery cost?
There is no single price. Hospital, surgeon, graft, implants, associated procedures and rehabilitation all influence
the total.
How can I book an appointment?
Use the contact details above or the appointment options available on the official Delhi Arthroscopy website.
Source note: This PDF expands and reorganizes information from the supplied Delhi Arthroscopy article and related public pages on
delhiarthroscopy.com. It is not an independent ranking of hospitals and should not be read as a guarantee of outcomes. Current
credentials, affiliations, pricing, insurance coverage and appointment availability should be confirmed directly.
Official website: https://delhiarthroscopy.com/    Article: ACL Reconstruction in Delhi
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