Editorial Commentary: Let’s Finally Agree That Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Lowers the Risk of Total Knee Arthroplasty When Compared With Nonoperative Treatment

The debate rages on whether anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction can reduce the risk of the development of symptomatic osteoarthritis (OA)-and subsequent total knee arthroplasty-in ACL-injured knees. The decision to perform ACL reconstruction depends on many factors. Typically, we consider knee-specific factors and patient-specific factors that ultimately drive decision making. However, if we can show that ACL reconstruction can delay or even prevent the development of OA, then the risk of OA may be a factor to consider as well.