Surgery versus rehabilitation for a torn ACL
This study compares two ways to treat a tear of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) near the top of the knee. It looks at whether having surgery is better than a non-surgical approach with physical therapy. You may be eligible if your tear is recent and you have no other knee injuries.
Summary written for real people, not researchers, by Clin2.
Who can take part
- You are 18 years or older
- You have never had knee surgery before, except possible surgery on the meniscus (a type of knee cushion)
- Your injury happened less than 3 months ago
- You have a specific type of ACL tear (called 'proximal' or Sherman type 1 or 2) that is confirmed by imaging
- If you have meniscus damage, it must be stable, or you may have mild injuries to other knee ligaments (grades 1 or 2, not grade 3)
- You play a non-contact sport that involves pivoting, like skiing or tennis
Quick eligibility check
Answer a few plain-language questions, based on this study's own requirements, to get a preliminary sense of fit.
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