ANSWERS TO COMMON QUESTIONS REGARDING ACL SURGERY:
How long will I be in the hospital?
Some surgery maybe performed as an outpatient. Patients go home 5-6
hours after surgery when they can eat and walk with crutches. Others
stay overnight and are discharged the next day. If you have your own
crutches please bring them to the hospital with you.
How long does the surgery take to perform?
The surgery usually requires 2 hours to perform. Repairing or removing a torn meniscus can add 15-20 minutes to the operation.
When can I drive a car?
When you feel safe and
confident behind the wheel so you can avoid getting into an accident.
Generally, driving is often resumed within the first week after
surgery, but may take longer if you have to work a clutch. Do not drive
when you are taking pain pills.
When can I return to work or school?
Motivated
people who have a sitting or desk job can usually be back at work or
school by 4-5 days after surgery. Construction workers take 4-6 months.
Patient's return to athletics in 6 months.
What is the success rate of the surgery?
90% of patients will have stability nearly equal to the normal knee and will be able to return to full unrestricted activities.
Can I re-injure the graft?
Of course, remember that
you tore your own natural ligament, so it is possible to rupture the
graft. Fortunately, rupture of the graft is uncommon. You are more
likely to tear the ACL in the other knee than to re-tear your
reconstructed ligament.
Can my therapist or trainer watch the operation?
Yes,
the therapist can call 274-0960 and let the office know if they would
like to observe the surgery. It is a hospital policy the non-medical
personal are not permitted in the operating room; this includes family
and friends.
If you have any more questions, and you should, please write them down and ask Dr. DeLee.
|
|
home |
location |
privacy policy