Womanrider,
There is another option for ACL reconstruction than the two you mentioned. I had my ACL reconstructed in 2005 after completely tearing it using a hamstring graft. I have had no problems with the knee after I completed PT during the first 5 months after surgery. You have to rehab both your knee and hamstring however.
I got plenty of advice on what to do after I injured myself. The best piece advice I have for you is to see a sports medicine doc because they have a lot of experience with this injury and the PT involved. I would also strongly recommend the surgery. I don't know how I could ride whoops without it.
Here is a link explaining the advantages and disadvantages to the different procedures.
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