A torn ACL can feel like the end of your athletic journey—but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you're a weekend warrior or competitive athlete, there's hope on the horizon with a cutting-edge biologic repair technique. The BEAR® Implant (Bridge-Enhanced ACL Restoration) offers a revolutionary approach to healing your ACL naturally. Here's how it’s changing the game in orthopedic recovery.
FDA-Approved Innovation in ACL Repair
The BEAR® Implant was the first medical advancement approved by the FDA to restore a torn ACL without using a graft.1 Traditional ACL reconstruction requires replacing the torn ligament with a tendon from another part of your body or a donor. The BEAR technique allows your own ligament to heal—bridging the torn ends with a special implant and your own blood to stimulate natural healing.
Why the BEAR Technique Is a Breakthrough
The BEAR ACL repair is redefining how we treat ACL injuries. Here's why this method is a game-changer:
- Preserves Your Native ACL – No need to harvest a graft, reducing surgical trauma.
- Faster Strength Recovery – Research studies show improved muscle strength post-op as compared to traditional ACL reconstruction.2
- More Natural Healing – Encourages your body to repair the ACL rather than replace it.
- Less Knee Pain – Many patients report less discomfort and quicker return to activity.
Are You a Candidate for BEAR ACL Repair?
The BEAR ACL procedure is typically best suited for patients who are within 50 days of their ACL tear and have a complete mid-substance tear. Candidates should also be skeletally mature, meaning their growth plates have closed. This innovative option is ideal for individuals seeking a less invasive recovery approach while preserving their natural ligament.
What to Expect During Recovery
Recovery after BEAR ACL surgery follows a similar timeline to traditional ACL rehab but may result in less pain and better early strength gains. Patients typically begin physical therapy within days of surgery and can return to sports in 6–9 months, depending on progress.
If you've been sidelined by an ACL injury, the BEAR Implant could be the solution you've been waiting for. It’s time to explore options that support healing and preserve your strength. Schedule a consultation to find out if you're a candidate for this cutting-edge procedure.
AUTHOR: Dr. Kai Mithoefer is board-certified in both Orthopedic Surgery and Orthopedic sports medicine specialist. Dr. Mithoefer is an internationally recognized specialist for complex shoulder and knee injuries with over 15 years of experience with the treatment of sports-related injuries. Dr. Mithoefer practices at Boston Bone and Joint Institute and has published more than 100 scientific articles and book chapters and is a frequent speaker at national and international orthopedic meetings.
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