I had my acl reconstructed, and think i tore the same acl on the same knee, what are the chances it'll be a better fix the second time around?

Not as good 2nd time: Statistically, re-do ACL surgery does not have as good results as the first surgery. If your surgeon can find a problem with the way it was done the first time, such as non-ideal bone tunnel position, and the problem can be fixed, it may do better the second time. The decision to have a second ACL surgery is a complex issue. It would be reasonable to get at least 2 opinions prior to repeat surgery.

Dr Michalski agreed

1st fix best but...: Results of revision (re-do) acl surgery are not as good as for primary. However, acl recon techniques have advanced to allow better (more anatomic) positioning of the reconstructed ligament (graft). See a sports med specialist with experience in acl revision. If your prior graft was not well-oriented your knee stability may be better than the first time. Good pt/rehab is critical to success.

Dr Michalski agreed

Depends: There are many reasons why an acl reconstruction fails, sometimes it is due to technical failure, sometimes from infection, sometimes from a new trauma. Solely looking at statistics, revision reconstructions are not as good as primary reconstructions. But that should not discourage you, talk with your doctor and make an informed decision.

Dr Michalski agreed