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Various Technique Modifications of BEAR ACL Restoration.
Samuel G Lorentz1, Zachary S Aman1, Brian C Lau1
1Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA.
Video Journal of Sports Medicine
|June 8, 2026
Summary
The Bridge-Enhanced ACL Restoration (BEAR) technique shows promising outcomes with modifications, achieving a 5% retear rate and enabling 61% of patients to return to sport within 9 months.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Biomaterials Science
Background:
- Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are common, affecting 68.6 per 100,000 annually.
- The Bridge-Enhanced ACL Restoration (BEAR) technique combines suture repair with a bioactive scaffold for ACL reconstruction.
- Modifications to the original BEAR technique are being prospectively evaluated in the Bridge registry.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe common modifications to the original BEAR technique for ACL repair.
- To present early outcomes of patients undergoing modified BEAR procedures.
Main Methods:
- Two common modifications of the BEAR technique are detailed, involving different suture and fixation methods (luggage tag sutures, tensionable loop/button assembly, knotless anchors).
- Both techniques utilize the same BEAR Implant preparation without arthroscopic visualization.
- The Bridge registry prospectively collects data on patients undergoing these modified procedures.
Main Results:
- The first 100 patients in the Bridge registry showed a 5% ACL retear rate at 2 years.
- A low rate of adverse events was observed.
- 61% of patients returned to sport by 9 months post-procedure.
Conclusions:
- Technical modifications to the BEAR implant procedure are effective.
- These modifications offer surgeons flexibility based on preference and expertise.
- Promising early outcomes support the use of modified BEAR techniques for ACL repair.