The third rupture within two years. As an active NLB handball player and pivot, a leader figure for my team in defence – sheer horror.

The rupture occurred on 28/09/2023 and on 03/10/2023 I was already able to present myself at FIRST to receive conservative therapy input. Because at this point I was almost certain that I didn’t want a third operation. This would mean filling the existing drill holes → break, re-plasty of the anterior cruciate ligament at a later date → long rehabilitation phase, reconstruction, etc.

It was already slightly visible on the MRI from 29/09/2023 and the ultrasound confirmed that my cruciate ligament was not yet completely torn. There was still a slight fibrous connection. Hope sprouted – could I avoid the 9-12 month break? I discussed the regenerative therapy concept with Dr Schnorr and was full of enthusiasm to have it carried out.

We planned 3 PRP injections under ultrasound guidance to individual structures (especially to the fibrous remnant of the cruciate ligament) at the earliest point in time and 4 weeks later. In addition, very specific physiotherapy treatments and the consistent wearing of a splint were used.

The final MRI examination took place 4 weeks after the last PRP injection. The cruciate ligament can be clearly visualised on the images again.

I can now start the sport-specific load build-up and will be fully cleared for sport from mid-January.

The treatment has now been completed at FIRST-ZURICH. However, I can contact the practice at any time with questions or problems. I am confident that I will be able to invite the FIRST team to a home game of my handball team in the 2023/2024 season.