An ACL tear can also result in cartilage damage in the knee. Knee cartilage naturally has poor blood supply and is less amenable to healing. During ACL repair, the cartilage can be smoothed using arthroscopic surgical techniques. However, some cartilage injuries lend themselves to further treatment with procedures that stimulate cartilage growth or replace the injured areas with new cartilage. Your physician will make a decision with you on whether or not cartilage restoration is necessary and will talk about various options. If restoration is performed, the rehabilitation after surgery is limited in order to protect the cartilage until it fully heals. Following a thorough rehabilitation program as directed by your physician, patients are usually able to resume activities within 6 months following surgery.
