Future Perspectives of Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

Reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is a common procedure of orthopaedic surgery. The challenges of recreating normal knee function after an injury to the ACL have led to excessive research and continuous innovation of the surgical techniques for ACL reconstruction. Recently, focus has been turned toward the anatomical ACL reconstruction that is one of the most intriguing approaches regarding the surgical technique. Furthermore, exploration of basic anatomy of the knee has led to further insight in concepts of tunnel placement, graft options, and treatment strategies. The possibility of quantitative measurement of knee laxity has evolved and is presented as one future approach to individualized surgery. The vast amount of literature available on ACL reconstruction illustrates that evidence regarding many aspects is advancing. However, it also illustrates that some studies are not generalizable, and that there is a need for further high-quality research. This article presents an overview of the development of ACL reconstruction and existing evidence. It reviews important aspects that influence current and future perspectives on ACL reconstruction.