Arthrex Releases New Data on InternalBrace for ACL Tears in Young Athletes

Arthrex has released new research that demonstrates its ACL reconstruction (ACLR) using the InternalBrace technique is an effective solution to combat reinjuries in young athletes.

According to the company, several new studies show the InternalBrace technique significantly reduces the rate of reinjuring or retearing a surgically reconstructed ACL.

Patrick A. Smith, MD (Naples, Fla.), a specialist in adolescent ACLR and ACL repair using the InternalBrace technique, and colleagues found an 88% reduction in the risk of ACL retears for younger patients who received the InternalBrace technique (1%) compared to those whose procedures did not include the technique (8%), with outcomes assessed at a minimum of two years in one study and five years in another.

Another study of adolescent patients receiving a quadriceps tendon graft combined with InternalBrace found zero graft retears and a high return to sport. Gordon Mackay, MD (Glasgow, UK), and colleagues also found a low retear rate of 1.1% in their patient population, with outcomes assessed at a five-year follow-up.

“This research is significant as the number of adolescent athletes suffering from anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries continues to rise,” said Jake Jolly, Senior Director of Product Management, Knee and Hip Arthroscopy at Arthrex. “Although ACLR is largely considered a successful operation, the chance of younger patients retearing their reconstructed ACL can be as high as 20% to 30%.”

The company also provides information at ACLTear.com, a website that illustrates the science of ACL injuries, highlights the benefits of advanced knee preservation techniques, and offers an interactive “Find a Doctor” tool to connect with a surgeon.

“As knee surgeons, all of us have a goal of never having the patient reinjure that initial reconstruction, and the InternalBrace procedure is a very simple way to get us close to that goal,” Dr. Smith said.

“Studies confirm there are approximately 400,000 ACL reconstructions performed every year in the United States, and we believe it’s crucial for patients to be empowered and informed about the surgical options available to enhance their recovery,” Jolly added.