Editorial Commentary: The Anterior Cruciate Ligament Cannot be Reliably Repaired: Studies With a Control Group are Needed!

Abstract

The results of anterior cruciate ligament repair are not satisfactory. While some cohort studies reported optimistic outcomes, even using augmentation and modern rehabilitation procedures, repair of anterior cruciate ligament ruptures should not be done outside well-designed studies as the overwhelming literature is quite negative on short-term results. The steps from basic science through animal surgery to clinical studies have still not resulted in techniques for daily use.