I am 67 years old, very active in sports like golf and bowling.. Have been working out at a health club three times a week and have a torn ACL.. Is ACL reconstructive surgery a good option for me or should I be looking for another way to live with my knee problem ?

-- Richard Zambroski (flazambo@home.com), October 14, 2001

Answers

In general, ACL reconstruction is not recommended for the older athlete. Usually, wearing a brace during the desired athletic activity is sufficient. However, the recommendation for a specific patient requires a comprehensive evaluation that includes detailed history, physical exam and review of images.

-- David S. Hungerford, M.D. (dhunger@jhmi.edu), October 17, 2001.