From ACL Reconstruction to Osteoarthritis: The Role of Return-to-Sport Timing, Graft Type, and Associated Injuries Across Age Groups

Background: Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are among the most common knee injuries in athletes participating in pivoting sports. While ACL reconstruction (ACLR) restores knee stability and allows return to sport (RTS), many patients develop post-traumatic osteoarthritis (OA) later in life. Identifying modifiable surgical and rehabilitation factors that contribute to OA development remains an important clinical goal. The purpose of this study is to examine how return-to-sport timing, g