Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) orthopedic surgeries fall into two main categories: ACL repair and ACL reconstruction. ACL repairs involve the reattachment of ligament from bony structure while ACL reconstruction uses a graft to replace the ligament.

ACL repair is most commonly done using less invasive arthroscopic procedures. ACL reconstruction can also be done arthroscopically or as open surgery, requiring larger incisions to access the structures of the knee.

Further Reading:

American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons: ACL Injuires

BioMet: ACL Reconstruction / The Knee