Comparing how different ACL surgeries affect muscle function

Neuromuscular response to competing ACL surgeries

['FUNDING_R01'] · RHODE ISLAND HOSPITAL · NIH-10995417

This study is looking at how two different surgeries for ACL injuries—one that keeps more of your knee's natural parts (called BEAR) and the standard surgery (ACLR)—affect how well your muscles recover and how your knee moves, to see if one method helps you heal better than the other.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorRHODE ISLAND HOSPITAL (nih funded)
Locations1 site (PROVIDENCE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10995417 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the differences in muscle recovery and joint motion between two surgical approaches for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries: the novel bridge-enhanced ACL restoration (BEAR) and the standard ACL reconstruction (ACLR). By analyzing patients from the BEAR-MOON Trial, the study aims to understand how these surgeries impact neuromuscular function and overall recovery. The researchers will evaluate muscle strength and joint motion over time to determine if the BEAR method, which preserves more of the knee's natural structures, leads to better outcomes than ACLR. This could provide valuable insights into optimizing surgical techniques for ACL injuries.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have suffered an ACL injury and are considering surgical intervention.

Not a fit: Patients who have already undergone ACL surgery or those with non-ACL related knee injuries may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved surgical techniques that enhance recovery and reduce the risk of long-term complications for patients with ACL injuries.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in preserving neuromuscular function with innovative surgical techniques, suggesting potential for success in this approach.

Where this research is happening

PROVIDENCE, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: ACL injury

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.