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Too Old for ACL Restoration? POSM Surgeons Weigh In on the BEAR Implant

By POSM Admin |
Knee Pain

POSM orthopaedic surgeons Dr. Dayne Mickelson and Dr. Tyler Nathe were recently featured in an article from Miach Orthopaedics, the company behind the BEAR®️ Implant. The article, “Am I Too Old to Get the BEAR Implant?”, tackles one of the most common questions patients ask after an ACL tear.
The BEAR (Bridge-Enhanced®️ ACL Restoration) Implant helps the body heal its own torn ACL instead of replacing it with a graft. Many people assume this kind of procedure is only for young athletes. Our surgeons say that isn’t the case.

Age isn’t the deciding factor

According to Dr. Mickelson, eligibility depends on the type of tear and the condition of the remaining ACL tissue, which is assessed on MRI and during surgery. Because BEAR avoids taking a graft from elsewhere in the body, the procedure is less invasive and can take less time in the operating room. Those benefits can matter even more for older patients, who often heal more slowly.

Dr. Nathe added that treatment should be based on a patient’s activity level and lifestyle, not their chronological age. In his view, the right conversation is about your goals and your overall health.

Both surgeons say about half of their BEAR patients are 40 or older.

    Read the full article

    Read  “Am I Too Old to Get the BEAR Implant?” on the Miach Orthopaedics website.

    Wondering if BEAR is right for you?

    If you‘ve torn your ACL, our sports medicine team can help you understand your options. Request an appointment with Dr. Mickelson or Dr. Nathe to find out whether you‘re a candidate for the BEAR Implant.