Authors' Reply

Abstract

ligament, but to crisscross them to minimize strangulation risk and suture bulk. In an editorial in Arthroscopy, Hohmann 6 rightfully pointed out that the reported 15% failure rate is notable. However, it is important to also consider the morbidity of both procedures. In our experience, repair patients have a dramatically faster and easier recovery with fewer complications compared with reconstruction patients. Moreover, the 15% failed repair patients can undergo a "revision" that is more like a primary reconstruction, while revision of ACL reconstruction has several limitations. 7-9 We believe these factors, in addition to the failure rate, should be taken into account when evaluating the outcomes of primary repair versus reconstruction. 10,11 We agree with the authors that arthroscopic primary ACL repair is an excellent treatment option for selected patients. Although further research into this exciting topic is clearly warranted, it is obvious that this is only the beginning of the conversation.