By Brian Reiter, MD
Fellowship-Trained Orthopaedic Surgeon in Sports Medicine, Atlantis Orthopaedics
An anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear is one of the most frustrating injuries for athletes and active individuals. It can sideline you instantly and, without proper care, lead to long-term instability or arthritis.
At Atlantis Orthopaedics, I use the latest minimally invasive techniques to help patients return to sports and life with a stronger, healthier knee.
Choosing the Best Graft for You
One of the biggest decisions in ACL surgery is which tissue (or “graft”) to use for the reconstruction. While patellar tendon and hamstring grafts have been standard choices for years, new research strongly supports the quadriceps tendon autograft.
- – It’s strong and durable.
- – Patients often report less pain in the front of the knee compared to patellar grafts.
- – It avoids hamstring weakness sometimes seen with hamstring grafts.
Using modern minimally invasive harvesting techniques, this graft has become an excellent option for athletes and active patients.
When Extra Stability Is Needed
Some patients experience not only forward looseness of the knee but also rotational instability. In these cases, I may add an anterolateral ligament (ALL) reconstruction.
This procedure is done through small incisions and provides extra stability, helping reduce the risk of the ACL graft re-tearing in the future.
Treating the Whole Knee
An ACL injury rarely happens alone. It’s common to see meniscus tears or cartilage damage at the same time.
- – Meniscus repairs are always prioritized over removal, since saving the meniscus protects your joint for the long term.
- – If cartilage damage is present, techniques like microfracture or biologic treatments can be considered to encourage healing and joint preservation.
By addressing all of these issues during surgery, we give the knee the best chance for long-term health.
Rehab: The Most Important Part
Surgery is only the beginning. A scientifically proven physical therapy program is essential for success.
- – Early safe motion prevents stiffness.
- – Strengthening exercises protect the new ligament.
- – Balance and coordination training helps prevent reinjury.
- – Return-to-sport testing ensures you’re truly ready to get back in the game.
Your recovery is guided every step of the way, with personalized milestones to keep you progressing safely.
The Bottom Line
Modern ACL reconstruction is more than just replacing a torn ligament — it’s about restoring full knee health, addressing related injuries, and building the strength and confidence to return to your sport.
As a fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeon in sports medicine at Atlantis Orthopaedics, I am committed to using the most advanced, evidence-based techniques to help patients achieve the best possible results.
Dr. Reiter is core faculty in the only Orthopaedic residency program in Palm Beach County.
📅 Schedule an Appointment
If you’ve suffered an ACL injury or are struggling with knee instability, schedule an appointment with Dr. Brian Reiter today.
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📍 Locations in Palm Beach Gardens and Lake Worth Beach