Do you need a referral for ACL reconstruction?

ACL reconstruction is an operation to restore stability after an anterior cruciate ligament injury. An orthopaedic or sports-medicine clinician usually assesses the knee first, reviews the injury history and examination, and considers imaging, activity goals, instability, and rehabilitation needs. That assessment does not automatically mean surgery is needed.

Referral rules are administrative rather than a test of whether your knee is serious. A primary-care clinician, physiotherapist, emergency clinician, or another doctor may provide the initial referral, depending on the service you use.

Call the chosen clinic and ask whether self-booking is accepted, which professional can refer you, and whether any authorisation is needed. Gather imaging reports, injury details, previous treatment information, and a list of medicines. Until assessed, follow advice on activity, swelling control, and safe movement; avoid movements that repeatedly give way or cause sharp pain.

Ask whether prehabilitation is recommended. Strength and movement work before surgery can help the team understand your baseline and prepare you for rehabilitation.

Seek urgent medical assessment after a knee injury if the knee is visibly deformed, becomes rapidly very swollen, cannot bear weight, locks, or the foot becomes cold, numb, or unusually pale. Do not wait for a routine referral when severe pain, loss of circulation, or major new weakness is present.

Do I need a referral for this clinic? Is ACL reconstruction suitable for my injury and goals? What rehabilitation is needed before and after surgery? Which records or scans should I bring?