The STARR technique is a cutting-edge approach to ACL repair. It aims to promote natural ligament healing, encouraging the body to regenerate ligament tissue.
2 minute check
A 2-minute, no-obligation check built on a clinically-validated knee screen. We'll estimate how likely an ACL injury is — and how much of your repair window is left.
A guided screening indicator based on a validated history questionnaire — not a diagnosis. Only an MRI reviewed by a specialist can confirm an ACL injury.
STARR offers a modern, biological alternative to traditional ACL reconstruction. Instead of replacing the torn ligament, this procedure promotes natural healing by bridging the gap between torn ACL ends using sutures and reinforcement techniques. The body’s own blood and cells stimulate regeneration, preserving native tissue. This approach is less invasive than graft-based surgery and may result in faster recovery, reduced pain, and a more natural joint feel.
Sports injuries: Rapid pivots, stops, or direct impacts during activities like football or skiing.
Previous knee trauma: Prior injuries may weaken the ACL or surrounding structures.
Joint instability: Poor muscular support or alignment increases injury risk.
High-impact movements: Jumping or abrupt directional changes strain the ACL over time.
Diagnosis starts with a clinical evaluation focusing on joint stability, swelling, and difficulty with movement. Patients typically report a popping sound at the time of injury, followed by pain and knee instability. A physical exam, including the Lachman test or pivot-shift test, helps assess ligament integrity.
Imaging studies such as MRI are used to confirm a complete or partial ACL tear and evaluate tissue quality. When the ligament is freshly torn and intact enough for healing, STARR may be recommended as a less invasive alternative to ligament reconstruction.
Who it suits
STARR is an advanced approach to Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) repair. It is designed to encourage the body to regrow and stabilise damaged ligament tissue while preserving as much of the native ACL as possible.
The damaged ACL is reinforced to support healing and restore stability. This approach aims to enhance the structural integrity of the soft tissues, encouraging durability, resilience, and a more natural-feeling recovery than graft-based reconstruction in suitable cases.
Cost and paying
We offer a range of flexible payment options to make your treatment experience smooth and stress-free.
Most patients choose to self-fund their treatment. We accept:
We’ve partnered with GoCardless to offer interest-free instalment options. You can easily set up a Direct Debit to spread the cost of your treatment over time.
Looking for a financing plan? You can apply through Kandoo, our trusted finance partner.
We work with a small number of approved insurance providers. However, due to restrictions from many insurers, not all treatments are covered. Please check with your insurer and speak to our team before booking to avoid disappointment.
What happens
Use our website to book an initial consultation, or give us a call.
Our doctors might request you arrange a scan before your initial consultation. Or, they’ll chat with you (face to face or online) and recommend a scan after your initial consultation, if they think you need one.
Once your scan results have been reviewed, and your doctor has explained your options, you will be booked in for treatment.
Following your treatment, your doctor will give you rehab recommendations.
You will be booked in for a follow-up consultation, so your doctor can check your progress. You might need further rehab after this consultation.
Once your doctor is happy with your recovery, you will be discharged. After discharge, we are always here for further questions or support, should you need it.
What is the typical recovery time for STARR treatment?
With STARR treatment, you can expect to return to normal function within 6-9 months, compared with 9-12 months for ACL reconstruction.
Many patients experience a quicker return to activity and reduced rates of re-injury when appropriately selected for this approach.
How do I know if STARR is right for me?
London Cartilage Clinic
We now offer select services at our Harley Street London clinic through the London Cartilage Clinic, led by internationally recognised surgeon Professor Paul Lee.
Our London clinic offers advanced treatments like cartilage regeneration and joint preservation to help patients avoid or delay joint replacement.
Located in Central London, our clinic provides convenient access to world-class musculoskeletal care without long NHS wait times.
If you would like to be seen in Central London, visit our London Clinic page for pricing, available treatments, and to book directly online.
Our Harley Street clinic uses cutting-edge techniques designed to reduce downtime and support faster, more effective recovery, getting you back to your lifestyle sooner.
Free discovery call
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