ACL tears are an incredibly common injury. It’s much more common for women to tear their ACLs than men, and even teenagers often tear their ACLs. This video introduces a new technique we can use that show very promising results:
ACL Tears – Preferred and New Surgical Technique
Quick Summary
ACL tears remain one of the most common sports injuries, and surgical technique continues to evolve. Newer approaches — including the BEAR implant for selected acute proximal tears, LET augmentation for high-risk patients, and refined quadriceps-tendon graft techniques — aim to reduce retear and protect the meniscus. The best technique is matched to the specific tear pattern, patient age, and activity level rather than applied universally.
- October 17, 2022
Frequently Asked Questions
How is ACL repair different from ACL reconstruction?
ACL reconstruction uses a tendon graft to replace the torn ligament. ACL repair — including the BEAR implant approach — preserves and heals the native ACL using a scaffold and the patient's own blood. Repair only suits select acute proximal tears with healthy remaining tissue, while reconstruction remains the standard for most chronic or distal tears.
Does adding a LET procedure mean a longer recovery?
Adding lateral extra-articular tenodesis adds about 20 minutes of operative time but typically does not extend overall recovery. Most patients follow the same return-to-sport timeline as standard ACL reconstruction. The LET is designed to protect the graft during high-pivot activities, particularly in younger athletes and revision cases where retear risk is elevated.
Is robotic or computer-navigated ACL surgery used in your practice?
Computer-assisted and image-guided techniques can help with precise tunnel placement in complex or revision ACL cases. For most primary ACL reconstructions, careful arthroscopic anatomy and intraoperative landmarks remain the standard. I use advanced imaging selectively when the situation calls for it — the goal is the most accurate reconstruction for each patient, not technology for its own sake.
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Book an appointment Contact the officeMedical Disclaimer. This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified physician regarding any questions about your orthopedic health. Individual results may vary based on diagnosis, anatomy, and overall health.