Mathias' ACL Injury

While playing soccer during a regular match one day, Mathias twisted his leg and ultimately tore his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL).

After the initial examination and MRI from the health center, he was referred to visit our team of sports medicine specialists at Shriners Children’s Philadelphia.

A short time later, Mathias had his first appointment with Sean Waldron, M.D., pediatric orthopedic surgeon. During that appointment, it was determined that Mathias would need surgery to repair the torn ACL.

While weighing his options, Mathias chose to proceed with the BEAR implant surgery, with the goal of returning to playing soccer in mind.

“He has been such a great patient ever since I met him. He was younger than most patients that undergo the BEAR procedure, but he worked hard during his rehab and always followed instructions. He plays for an elite local soccer team, but he didn’t try to rush back after surgery, and it paid off because now he is back playing. Mom says he is a better player now than before surgery,” said Dr. Waldron.

The BEAR Implant

The BEAR implant is a surgical device that is first injected with the patient’s own blood and is then placed between the torn ends of the ACL. The BEAR implant surgery is a minimally invasive procedure, and the device will dissolve on its own within eight weeks. With proper management and physical therapy, most patients are expected to make a full recovery within nine to 12 months.

Physical Therapy for ACL Recovery

Physical therapy is important for all sports injuries, especially ACL tears. Our on-site rehabilitation team created a personalized care plan for Mathias, which included “pre-rehabilitation” before surgery to get stronger. After surgery, he attended weekly physical therapy sessions and followed an at-home exercise plan to aid with recovery.

“Mathias was a very conscientious patient and worked extremely hard to get back to a high level of play. His post-op process was made more difficult by several growth spurts throughout the rehab process, which needed to be addressed along with his surgery, but he kept diligently working through it. It was great to see him so supported by his family – mom bringing him to PT appointments, going to the gym with his dad and sister, and all of them helping him on his preliminary ball skills on the pitch before he was cleared for team play. We also communicated with his coaches, who were very supportive of a gradual transition back to full play. It's great to see that level of support for a young athlete,” said Sarah Kolp, PT, D.P.T., OCS.

“He is amazing, [Dr. Waldron]. He is very professional and explained everything step by step. And Sarah, wow! Physical therapy was difficult in the beginning, but she helped us a lot, and we did everything that she told us to do at home,” said Andrea, Mathias’ mom.

Mathias is now just about two years post-op. He is feeling much stronger and has since returned to playing soccer!

Dr. Waldron has now completed 13 BEAR implant surgeries. If your athlete has an ACL injury, call 215-430-4000 to schedule a consultation to determine if they might be a good candidate for the BEAR implant.