Mr Dennis Molloy
ACL Knee Reconstruction
Are you experiencing knee instability after a ligament injury? You may also notice swelling, pain, or difficulty returning to sport or regular activity.
An injury to the anterior cruciate ligament, often called the ACL, can affect how stable your knee feels. This ligament helps control movement in the joint. When it is torn, the knee may feel weak or unreliable during everyday activities such as walking on uneven ground, climbing stairs, or exercising.
Some people can manage mild symptoms with physiotherapy. Others continue to experience instability that affects work, sport, or daily life. In these cases, surgery may be considered.
What Is ACL Reconstruction Surgery?
ACL reconstruction surgery is a procedure used to repair a torn anterior cruciate ligament in the knee. The damaged ligament is replaced with a graft, usually taken from another tendon in your body or from donor tissue.
The surgery is commonly carried out using keyhole techniques. Small instruments and a camera are inserted through tiny cuts around the knee. The surgeon removes the damaged ligament and secures the new graft in place to restore stability.
This procedure is usually recommended for people who have ongoing knee instability, wish to return to sport or physical activity, or have damage to other structures in the knee.
A consultant orthopaedic surgeon will assess your knee, review scans if needed, and discuss whether ACL reconstruction surgery is suitable for you.
Still have questions about hip replacement surgery? Check out our FAQs.
Healthcare Without
the Wait
Many patients in Ireland experience long waiting times for ACL surgery through the HSE. In some cases, reimbursement may be available through the Cross Border Healthcare Plan.
We provide access to ACL surgery using an enhanced recovery pathway. This approach supports early mobilisation and, for many patients, discharge within 24 hours, depending on clinical need.
With locations in Belfast, Ballykelly and Newry, we are easily accessible for patients from border counties and across Ireland.
Next Available Appointment
Belfast
Tomorrow
Steps to get started
If you have ongoing knee pain, your GP will assess you and, if they think ACL reconstruction surgery is right, give you a referral letter to see a specialist.
ACL Reconstruction Cost
The cost of ACL reconstruction surgery can vary depending on your individual treatment plan, the consultant involved, and any imaging or rehabilitation required.
You will receive clear information about the expected cost before treatment. The team can explain what is included and answer any questions you may have.
You will receive clear information about the expected cost before treatment. The team can explain what is included and answer any questions you may have.
Cross-Border Healthcare Scheme
Many patients in Ireland face long waiting times for orthopaedic surgery through the HSE. Some patients may be eligible to claim reimbursement for ACL reconstruction surgery through the Cross Border Healthcare Scheme.
This scheme allows patients who normally live in the Republic of Ireland to travel to Northern Ireland for treatment and apply to the HSE to reclaim part of the cost.
This scheme allows patients who normally live in the Republic of Ireland to travel to Northern Ireland for treatment and apply to the HSE to reclaim part of the cost.
If you’re using health insurance
Check with your provider to see what’s covered. We’re happy to help with any paperwork and can work directly with many insurance companies to make the process smoother for you.
If you’re paying for treatment yourself
We’ll give you clear information about costs and help you plan your care. You’ll know exactly what to expect, with no hidden fees.
Meet Our ACL Knee Reconstruction Consultants
At Kingsbridge, you’ll be in the expert hands of Ireland and the UK’s top orthopaedic consultants.
Our Locations
Our locations are easily accessible via major transport routes, making them convenient for patients travelling from border counties and across Ireland.
Approximate travel times:
- Dublin to Belfast: 2.5 hours
- Dublin to Ballykelly: 3 hours
This ensures a smooth and convenient journey for patients seeking timely treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
The following frequently asked questions address common concerns and help you understand what to expect from ACL reconstruction surgery.
How can I access ACL reconstruction surgery in Ireland?
ACL reconstruction surgery is available through both the public health service and private healthcare providers.
Within the public system, you usually need a referral from your GP to see an orthopaedic consultant through the HSE. After assessment, further imaging such as an MRI scan may be arranged before surgery is considered.
Private care is available through Kingsbridge Private Hospital. You can be referred by your GP, physiotherapist, or sports injury specialist to see a consultant orthopaedic surgeon for assessment and treatment.
What are the waiting times for ACL reconstruction surgery?
Waiting times for ACL resconstruction surgery through the HSE can often be several months or longer, depending on demand and local services.
Private treatment through Kingsbridge Private Hospital usually offers much shorter waiting times for consultation, imaging, and surgery.
The exact timeframe will depend on your assessment and the availability of the consultant surgeon.
How much does ACL reconstruction surgery cost?
The cost of ACL reconstruction surgery in Ireland can vary depending on the hospital, consultant fees, imaging, and rehabilitation requirements.
Many patients choose private care through Kingsbridge Private Hospital for faster access to treatment.
Patients from Ireland may be eligible to apply for reimbursement from the HSE through the Cross Border Healthcare Directive. This scheme allows patients to travel to Northern Ireland for treatment and claim back some of the cost once approved.
Eligibility and reimbursement levels are determined by the HSE. Patients usually need a GP referral and must apply through the HSE Cross Border Healthcare Office.
How long does ACL reconstruction surgery take?
The operation usually takes between one and two hours.
You will normally attend hospital on the day of surgery. Preparation before the operation and recovery time afterwards means you may spend several hours in the hospital. Many patients return home the same day, although some may stay overnight depending on their circumstances.
What happens before, during, and after the procedure?
Before surgery, you will attend a consultation with an orthopaedic surgeon. Imaging such as an MRI scan may be used to confirm the ACL injury and assess the knee. Pre assessment checks will also take place to ensure you are fit for surgery.
During the procedure, the surgeon uses keyhole techniques to remove the torn ligament and position the new graft. The graft is secured within the knee using small fixation devices.
After surgery, you will spend time in recovery while the effects of the anaesthetic wear off. Physiotherapy usually begins soon after surgery to support movement and strength in the knee.
Are there different types of ACL reconstruction?
Yes. The main difference between procedures is the type of graft used to replace the ligament.
Common graft options include:
Hamstring tendon graft
A section of tendon from the hamstring muscles is used to create the new ligament.
Patellar tendon graft
A portion of the tendon connecting the kneecap to the shin bone is used.
Donor graft
Tissue from a donor may be used in some cases.
Your consultant will discuss the most suitable option based on your age, activity level, and the condition of your knee.
How long does recovery take after ACL reconstruction surgery?
Recovery takes time and requires a structured rehabilitation programme.
Many people use crutches for the first one to two weeks. Physiotherapy usually begins soon after surgery to help restore movement and strengthen the knee.
Daily activities such as walking and desk based work may resume within several weeks. More demanding activity takes longer.
Return to sport or high impact exercise often takes six to nine months, depending on your progress and the advice of your physiotherapy team.
What aftercare is provided following ACL reconstruction surgery?
Follow up appointments are arranged with your consultant to monitor healing and recovery.
Physiotherapy is an essential part of aftercare and helps rebuild strength, balance, and movement in the knee. Your care team will guide you through each stage of rehabilitation.
Pain relief medication and advice on swelling control will also be provided after surgery.
Are there alternatives to ACL reconstruction surgery?
Some people manage ACL injuries without surgery, particularly if their knee remains stable during daily activities.
Non surgical options may include physiotherapy, muscle strengthening, activity modification, and knee bracing.
Surgery may be recommended if the knee continues to give way, if there are additional injuries in the knee, or if you wish to return to sports that involve pivoting or sudden changes in direction.