In January 2023, Kannada actor Sriimurali sustained an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury while filming an intense action sequence for his movie Bhageera. The injury led to a three-hour surgical procedure, and he was advised to rest for three months to ensure proper recovery.
While high-profile cases like Sriimurali’s bring attention to ACL injuries, many people may not fully understand the nature of these injuries, their causes, or the surgical interventions required. This blog aims to shed light on ACL injuries, explore the surgical procedures involved, and provide insights into treatment options available in Bangalore.
What is an ACL injury?
The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is a vital band of tissue inside your knee that connects the thigh bone (femur) to the shin bone (tibia). It acts like a strong rope, keeping your knee stable during movements such as walking, running, or jumping.
An ACL injury happens when this ligament stretches too much or tears. This can occur during activities that involve sudden stops, quick changes in direction, or awkward landings from a jump. Sports like soccer, basketball, and skiing often see such injuries because of the rapid movements involved.
When the ACL is injured, you might hear a popping sound in your knee, followed by swelling and pain. The knee may feel unstable, making it hard to stand or walk comfortably. These symptoms indicate that the ligament isn’t providing the necessary support to keep the knee steady.
Top ACL Surgeons in Bangalore
When dealing with an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury, selecting the right surgeon is crucial for a successful recovery. Bangalore boasts several esteemed orthopaedic specialists renowned for their expertise in ACL reconstruction and related procedures. Here’s an overview of five leading ACL surgeons in the city:
1. Dr. Hemant K. Kalyan
Experience: Dr. Hemant K. Kalyan has over 31 years of experience in orthopaedics and joint replacement surgery.
Education and Achievements: He earned gold medals in both D.Ortho and MS Ortho in 1989 and was recognized as the Best Resident in Orthopaedics the same year. Dr. Kalyan was the first Indian to obtain a Diploma in Sports Medicine from the Scottish Royal Colleges in 1991.
Specialties: His areas of specialisation include arthroscopic surgery, sports injuries, knee and hip joint replacements, and minimally invasive fracture surgery.
Affiliations: He is affiliated with several professional organisations, including the Indian Medical Association (IMA) and the Indian Orthopaedic Association.
2. Dr. Abhinandan S. Punit
Experience: Dr. Abhinandan S. Punit is an orthopaedic surgeon with over 14 years of experience.
Education and Qualifications: He holds multiple qualifications, including MS Orthopaedics, DNB Orthopaedics, MCh Orthopaedics, and an MSc in Sports Medicine from the UK.
Specialties: Dr. Punit specialises in robotic joint surgery, hip and knee surgeries, and ACL reconstruction.
Contributions: He has contributed to numerous research papers and is a speaker at various national and international conferences.
3. Dr. Chirag Thonse
Experience: With 14 years of experience, Dr. Chirag Thonse is a senior specialist in shoulder and knee surgeries.
Specialties: He focuses on sports injuries, arthroscopy, and joint replacement surgeries.
Achievements: Dr. Thonse has performed over 10,000 surgeries, including approximately 7,000 arthroscopic ACL surgeries and 3,000 joint replacements.
Contributions: He is actively involved in teaching and training programs and has been a faculty member at numerous national and international conferences.
4. Dr. Chethan Nagaraj
Experience: Dr. Chethan Nagaraj is a leading orthopaedic surgeon with over 15 years of experience.
Education: He completed his MBBS from Mysore Medical College and MS in Orthopaedics from Madras Medical College.
Training: Dr. Nagaraj has worked at prestigious institutions like AIIMS, New Delhi, and has undergone specialised training in joint replacement and arthroscopy in Australia and New Zealand.
Specialties: His expertise includes computer-navigated joint replacement surgeries, arthroscopic ACL reconstruction, and complex trauma surgeries.
5. Dr. Deepak G. Shivarathre
Experience: Dr. Deepak G. Shivarathre is a senior consultant in orthopaedics and ortho oncology with over 18 years of experience.
Previous Positions: He previously served as a consultant at the Royal Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Trust in the UK before moving to India.
Specialties: Dr. Shivarathre specialises in joint replacements, including knee, hip, shoulder, and elbow replacements, as well as revision surgeries for failed replacements.
Additional Expertise: He also has expertise in managing musculoskeletal tumours and sports injuries, particularly ACL reconstruction.
Now that you’re familiar with some of the top ACL surgeons in Bangalore, it’s essential to understand the financial aspects of ACL surgery in the city. The cost of ACL reconstruction surgery in Bangalore typically ranges from ₹80,000 to ₹1,70,000, depending on various factors.
Factors Influencing the Cost
- Hospital or Clinic: Renowned hospitals in bangalore or orthopaedic clinics often charge more than smaller, lesser-known facilities.
- Surgeon’s Expertise: The surgeon’s experience, reputation, and skill level can significantly impact the cost.
- Preoperative Tests: Diagnostic procedures like MRI scans, X-rays, blood tests, and physical examinations may add to the overall expense.
- Surgical Technique: The choice of surgical procedures, such as autograft or allograft graft selection and fixation techniques (screws, staples, or sutures), can affect the price.
When it comes to paying for ACL surgery, it’s smart to make sure you’re not being overcharged. First, don’t hesitate to compare prices at different hospitals and clinics in Bangalore—some places might charge way more for the same treatment. Also, ask for a clear breakdown of what each part of the surgery will cost. This helps you see exactly what you’re paying for, like the surgery itself, hospital stay, and any tests. Finally, getting quotes from a few surgeons can help you figure out what’s a fair price so you can avoid any overpriced options.
Conclusion
So, here’s the deal: bouncing back after ACL surgery is all about a few key steps that’ll make a real difference. Keep any pain in check, stay on top of swelling, and show up for those physical therapy sessions—they’re going to be your best friend in building up strength again. Don’t forget about wound care; just keep it clean and dry, and you’re golden. And hey, if you’re told to use crutches or a brace, lean into it; it’s only temporary and totally worth it. Make sure to hit your follow-up appointments too—they’ll help track your progress and catch anything early if needed. Stick to these basics, and you’ll be back to doing your thing sooner than you think!