Acl reconstruction needed or not?

I am 34 and completely tore my acl about 3 and a 1/2 weeks ago and was initially told that i would need to have it reconstructed. However today the consultant has said give it 3 months and if strong enough then they may just leave it. My concern is that i work as a sports teacher and possibly have another 30 -34 years to work in this field. Obviously my role involves a lot of high impact work and most common sports are taught which require sudden changes in direction. I also still take part in sports including soccer and badminton. Do you think my knee will cope in future without reconstruction as i am quite worried about it in relation to my job and sporting lifestyle.

Also what are the pros and cons of having or not having the reconstruction done. Thanks in advance for your help!

Tough question!!! There is a lot of argument on that issue. At the last years (2010) Sport medicine coference held in the uk physios Drs and GSRs we were having a strong debate on that. My university tutor had his ACL torn as well did not had a surgery and kept on playing rugby. I can only suggest the following thinking. continue you rehab and test your knee at the moves you are scared. if that causes you problems in your work and sensations you cant cope with then go for the surgery if not keep your rehab regime and visit you physio or Dr every 6 to 12 months for assessment.

For the pros and cons of having or not having the reconstruction done discuss it with the Dr or physio so u can further elaborate and or to make additional Qs and solve all those Qs.

Sorry for not been a lot of help.