Cruciate ligaments come in pairs and form the shape of a cross in a joint. One of the most important such ligaments in the body are the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), which is located in the knee. Cruciate ligament surgery is indicated for patients who have torn this vital part of the knee joint. During cruciate ligament surgery, an orthopedic surgeon will harvest a strong tendon from another part of the body and sew it into place over the damaged ACL. In the US and UK, cruciate ligament surgery may cost up to $14,000 or £7,000. Orthopedic surgeons abroad can perform this joint repair for several thousand less.

In Mexico, cruciate ligament surgery costs around $8,200 or £5,600. In Colombia and Costa Rica, the price is about $4,000 or £2,700. Many orthopedic specialists in Latin America study surgery in the US and UK, and doctors stay current with the latest advancements in surgical techniques. Patients will have the choice between using tendons from their own bodies, or using allograft material. Allografts are sterilized tissues taken from donors. Both options have advantages and disadvantages. Cruciate ligament surgery is a short operation and patients can leave the hospital after one night. ACL reconstruction may require physical therapy following surgery, and Mexico has many excellent physical therapy clinics. Should a patient choose to extend his stay in Latin America for recovery, he will find the costs of food and lodging quite low.