REHAB SERVICES Q: I had a total knee replacement, do I still have an ACL? Megan Kvidt, PTA A: In most severely arthritic knees, the ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) is torn or absent from degenerative changes. In the last 20 years or so, the majority of total knee designs have routinely removed the ACL even if still present. The shape and design of the artificial knee components essentially substitutes for the ACL and provides the necessary stability in the knee. However, by replacing the knee with artificial components, the kinematics of the knee change. By preserving the ligaments, the movement of the knee joint feels more natural and improves the range of motion. In the beginning of knee replacements, many designs that salvaged the ACL failed due to premature breaking and wear of the lower knee component. Current design components are utilizing newer material that is stronger, but long term studies looking at the survivorship are ongoing. Consequently, in most cases the ACL is removed until total knee components are more precisely developed. Sanford Bemidji Rehab Services SANFORD" | 1300 Anne Street NW Bemidji, MN 56601 (218) 333-5898 www.bemidji.sanfordhealth.org TM Bemidji REHAB SERVICES Q: I had a total knee replacement, do I still have an ACL? Megan Kvidt, PTA A: In most severely arthritic knees, the ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) is torn or absent from degenerative changes. In the last 20 years or so, the majority of total knee designs have routinely removed the ACL even if still present. The shape and design of the artificial knee components essentially substitutes for the ACL and provides the necessary stability in the knee. However, by replacing the knee with artificial components, the kinematics of the knee change. By preserving the ligaments, the movement of the knee joint feels more natural and improves the range of motion. In the beginning of knee replacements, many designs that salvaged the ACL failed due to premature breaking and wear of the lower knee component. Current design components are utilizing newer material that is stronger, but long term studies looking at the survivorship are ongoing. Consequently, in most cases the ACL is removed until total knee components are more precisely developed. Sanford Bemidji Rehab Services SANFORD" | 1300 Anne Street NW Bemidji, MN 56601 (218) 333-5898 www.bemidji.sanfordhealth.org TM Bemidji