Innovations in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction in athletes

Abstract

Introduction: Sports injuries, and particularly those of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), stand as significant obstacles that threaten the career and performance of athletes. Because of this, the scientific and medical community has responded to this challenge with a series of groundbreaking innovations that address the limitations associated with traditional reconstruction techniques and fundamentally transform the recovery experience for athletes. Objectives: The general objective of this article is to comprehensively analyze and evaluate innovations in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction in athletes, to understand their effectiveness, safety, and potential impact on clinical outcomes. Methodology: To meet this objective, a methodology with a qualitative approach and an exploratory-descriptive type of research was used, since it seeks to deepen the understanding of innovations in ACL reconstruction and describe the experiences of athletes in this context. In addition, an exhaustive review of the scientific and medical literature was carried out using various databases, concluding that, in terms of the technological and material advances used in ACL reconstruction, the positive impact of advanced imaging techniques, surgical navigation systems, state-of-the-art biomaterials and fixation devices. Results:  Surgical techniques, technological advances, and care focused on long-term outcomes have transformed this intervention into a highly specialized discipline. Conclusions: The review of surgical techniques for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction in athletes shows a significant evolution, from patellar tendon autografts to minimally invasive innovations. Technological advances, such as advanced imaging and modern biomaterials, have improved the precision and success of surgeries, reducing complications and speeding recovery. General area of study: Medicine. Specific area of study: Traumatology. Type of study: Degree project / Scientific article.