Is ACL reconstruction done with a bioabsorbable screw?

After the surgeon positions the graft in a bone tunnel, a fixation device helps hold it in place while the graft integrates with the surrounding bone. A bioabsorbable screw is designed to gradually break down over time rather than remain as a permanent metal implant. Its material, strength, placement, and expected behaviour should be explained for the specific device being considered. Other fixation methods may be selected at the femur, tibia, or both. Learn about [Bioabsorbable Screw](/materials/bioabsorbable-screw/) and [ACL Reconstruction](/treatments/sports-and-arthroscopic-surgery/acl-reconstruction/).

Ask the surgeon where fixation will be placed and why that option suits your graft and bone tunnels. Tell the team about previous knee operations, allergies, and any planned imaging or future procedures. Follow weight-bearing, brace, and exercise instructions after surgery; the screw does not mean the graft can be loaded before healing permits. Physiotherapy usually progresses from motion and swelling control to strength, balance, running, and sport-specific drills.

Report increasing pain, swelling, redness, wound drainage, fever, or a new inability to move the knee. Urgent assessment is needed for chest pain, breathlessness, or new calf swelling. Later, contact the clinician for recurrent giving way, a new locking sensation, or symptoms that arise as activity is increased.

Ask whether a bioabsorbable screw will be used on one side or both, what material it contains, how it will appear on future imaging, what alternatives exist, and which symptoms during rehabilitation should trigger an earlier review.