ACL Reconstruction:
Questions
for Your Physician
Before an ACL
reconstruction, and after an ACL tear, the following days are usually
full of doctors visits, MRI's, X-rays, and lots and lots of questions.
If you have been in this situation, you know what I am talking about.
Unfortunately,
orthopedic surgeons are very busy, and they usually don't spend a lot
of time with their patients in the clinic. They will answer your
questions, but unless you know what you are going to ask them, it is
hard to remember them all.
There
are lots of
decisions that need to be made after an ACL tear, and before an ACL
surgery.
I have outlined some of the many questions you should
talk over with your physician before your surgery.
This
is not a complete list, but just a starting point to get you thinking
about all of the things that go with an anterior cruciate
reconstruction.
- What type of graft will be used?
- What are the benefits/drawbacks of this graft type?
- Do you specialize in knee surgeries?
- How often do you do ACL reconstructions?
- Do you use a post-operative brace for your patients?
- How long will I have to wear the brace?
- How long will I be on crutches?
- How soon after surgery will I start rehabilitation?
- Can I do exercises at home before starting rehab?
- How long will I be in rehabilitation?
- Are there any major complications with an ACL reconstruction
- How long before I can drive again?
- When can I return to work?
- When can I play sports again?
All
of these questions are important, not only for the
success of the surgery, but to set your mind at ease before and after
the surgery. Your physician should be able to answer all of these
questions, and will be more than happy to...all you have to do is ask.
Use
this list to start, and then add other questions that you think of as
you prepare for your ACL surgery. Write them down, and take them
with you for your pre-operative visit.
ACL Surgery StoriesIf
you have had an ACL reconstruction, or are getting ready for this
surgery, I want to hear your story. Whether you have questions you want
answered, or just want to share your experience, this is the place for
you.
Do you have a question about the information on this page? If so,
ask me and get an answer.
Or if you have experience with this topic,
share your story...
ACLR:
Questions for Your Physician ---> Return to ACL Reconstruction
Keeping You Off The Sidelines...
