BEAR® Implant Long Island
Written by: Dr. Nicholas DeBellis
Reviewed by: Miach Orthopaedics
Understanding ACL Tears
An anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear is a common knee injury, especially among athletes and active individuals on Long Island. These injuries often occur during pivoting, cutting, or sudden changes in direction.
Not every ACL tear requires surgery. However, doctors may discuss surgical treatment when the knee feels unstable, when repeated “giving way” episodes occur, or when a patient plans to return to high-demand activities.
ACL reconstruction has long been a commonly performed surgical procedure. In certain situations, surgeons may also consider another approach known as the BEAR® Implant procedure.
What Is ACL Reconstruction?
ACL reconstruction replaces the torn ligament with a tendon graft. The graft may come from the patient or from donor tissue. Over time, the graft functions as a stabilizing structure within the knee.
Surgeons commonly use this procedure for many types of ACL tears and remains an established treatment option.
What Is the BEAR® Implant Procedure?
The BEAR® (Bridge-Enhanced ACL Restoration) Implant procedure is designed to support restoration of the patient’s existing ACL tissue Rather than replacing the ligament with a graft, this approach allows the surgeon to repair the native ACL tissue, making the surgery less invasive than traditional ACL reconstruction. The BEAR implant then uses collagen and the patient’s biologics to aid in the healing of the native tissue as well as reducing the risk of post-traumatic osteoarthritis
The surgeon determines BEAR candidates intraoperatively based on the torn ACL tissue and patient demographics.
Removes and Replaces the torn ACL with a tendon graft that functions as a new ligament
The graft is either harvested from the patient or a donor graft is utilized
Common surgical treatment for ACL tears.
Designed to heal the patient’s existing ACL tissue.
Does not require tendon graft harvesting or bone tunnels used in ACL reconstruction.
Surgeons determine BEAR Implant candidates based on tissue quality, tear pattern, mode of injury, and patient demographics.
The information above is general in nature and does not represent a recommendation for any specific patient. Neither procedure guarantees a specific outcome or recovery timeline. Surgeons base surgical decisions on individual clinical findings, imaging results, and patient goals.
Who May Be a Candidate?
Some patients may qualify for either procedure. Others may only be appropriate candidates for ACL reconstruction.
Eligibility depends on several factors:
- The type and location of the ACL tear
- Tissue quality
- Overall knee stability
- Activity level and future goals
An orthopedic surgeon must complete a comprehensive evaluation and MRI review before deciding whether BEAR Implant or ACL surgery may be considered.
Making an Informed Decision
Choosing between ACL reconstruction and the BEAR Implant procedure involves a detailed discussion. The goal of consultation is to explain the differences clearly and outline which surgical option may be appropriate based on the specific injury.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the BEAR Implant available on Long Island?
Availability may vary by surgeon training and practice. An evaluation is necessary to determine whether this option may be appropriate. South Island Orthopedics, Dr. Nicholas DeBellis is trained and skilled in performing the Bear Implant. Dr. Debellis sees patients across locations on Long Island, New York.
Is ACL reconstruction still commonly performed?
Yes. ACL reconstruction remains a commonly performed procedure for many ACL tears.
How do I know which procedure is right for me?
An in-person consultation with an orthopedic surgeon is required to determine candidacy and discuss appropriate treatment options.
What Is the BEAR Procedure?
The BEAR procedure (Bridge-Enhanced ACL Restoration) is a surgical option used to treat certain ACL tears. During the procedure, a small implant is placed between the torn ends of the ligament and combined with the patient’s blood to help support healing.
About Dr. Nicholas DeBellis
Dr. Nicholas DeBellis is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist. He is the Medical Director and President of South Island Orthopedics and treats a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, including ACL tears, sports injuries, auto accident injuries, and work injuries in both adults and children. Dr. DeBellis also serves as the team physician for Molloy University Athletics. Dr. Nicholas DeBellis is one of the most active BEAR Implant surgeons on Long Island.
Dr. Nicholas DeBellis is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist serving Cedarhurst, Rockville Centre, and surrounding Long Island communities. He treats sports-related injuries, car accident injuries, and work-related injuries in children and adults.
About South Island Orthopedics
South Island Orthopedics provides orthopedic and sports medicine care throughout Long Island with locations in Rockville Centre and Cedarhurst. Services include evaluation and treatment of sports injuries, trauma, arthroscopic procedures, auto injuries and work-related injuries. Care decisions are based on individual patient needs and clinical findings.
Request an Evaluation on Long Island
If you experienced a knee injury and are researching BEAR Implant vs ACL surgery on Long Island, a comprehensive evaluation can help clarify your options.
Call us at 516-295-0111 or Request an Appointment online to schedule a consultation with Dr. Nicholas DeBellis.