This meta-analysis investigates the relationship between passing return-to-sport (RTS) criteria and the likelihood of recurring injuries in patients following ACL reconstruction.

After reviewing nine clinical studies, the authors conclude that meeting RTS standards does not correlate with a lower risk of general knee injuries or contralateral ACL tears.

However, athletes who successfully pass these evaluations demonstrate a significantly reduced risk of graft rupture.

The research highlights that results vary by geographic region, with European studies showing more protective benefits than those from the United States.

Ultimately, the paper supports the clinical use of RTS testing while calling for stricter, more standardized protocols to better predict athlete safety.

(Zhou W, Liu X, Hong Q, Wang J, Luo X. Association between passing return-to-sport testing and re-injury risk in patients after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis. PeerJ [Internet]. 2024;12:e17279. Available from: http://dx.doi.org/10.7717/peerj.17279)