New research suggests that young athletes are more likely to re-injure their knee after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) surgery.

Researchers found that one in three young athletes who undergo ACL surgery experiences re-injury. ACL reconstruction is surgery to rebuild the ligament in the center of your knee. 

"We examined survey data from 242 patients who underwent ACL reconstruction between 1993 and 1998," noted Justin P. Roe of thee North Sydney Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Center. "Of this group, 75, or 31 percent sustained a further injury after at least 15 years."

The study group consisted of 104 females and 138 males at a mean age of 16 years. A total of 168 (69 percent) reported returning to their pre-injury level of activity following surgery.

Researchers found that young knees are more prone to re-injury than the adult population when compared to other research in this area -- and is the first study to examine the incidence and risk factors for further ACL injury in a solely juvenile population over the long term.

"Our study shows that," said Roe, lead author of the study. "While surgery still may be the best option for many ACL injuries, it brings to light the important factors physicians must consider when treating the younger population."

Rugby or soccer was reported as the sport of choice for 48 percent of the injured athletes participating in the study.

The findings were presented at the American Orthopedic Society for Sports Medicine's (AOSSM) Specialty Day.