Knee surgery, anterior cruciate ligament
Before havingknee surgery, you may need to wait for any swelling to go down and the full range of movement to return to your knee.
Youmay also need to wait until the muscles at the front of your thigh (quadriceps) and the back of your thigh (hamstrings) are as strong as possible.
If you don't have the full range of movement in your knee before having surgery, your recovery will be more difficult.
It's likely totake atleast three weeks after the injury occurred for the full range of movement to return. Your GP may refer youto a physiotherapistto help you prepare for surgery.
Physiotherapists, orphysios,are healthcare professionalswho use physical methods, such as massage and manipulation, toencourage healing.A physio will be able tohelp you regain the full range of movement in your knee.
Optimising the muscle function in the knee will help to ensure a more successful outcome after surgery. It may also provide the knee with sufficient stability, so that surgery may not always be necessary.
Yourphysio may show you some stretches you can do at home to help keep your leg flexible. They may also recommend low-impact exercises, such as swimming or cycling . These types of activities will improve your muscle strength without placing too much weight on your knee.
You should avoid any sports or activities that involve twisting, turning or jumping.
You'll be seen by amember of the team who will look after you while you're in hospital.
A physical examination will be carried out and you'll be asked about your medical history. You may also need to have some investigations and tests, such asa knee X-ray .
You'll be asked about any tablets or other types of medication you're taking, both prescribed and over-the-countermedication (bought from a pharmacy).
A member ofyour care team will also ask about any anaesthetic (painkilling medication) you've had in the past, and whether you experienced any problems or side effects, such as nausea.
They'll also ask you some questions about your teeth, including whether you wear dentures , caps or a plate. This is because during the operation a tube may beput down your throat to help you breathe, and any loose teeth could be dangerous.
The pre-admission clinicis a good time to ask any questions you have about the procedure. However, you can discussany concerns with your surgeon at any time.
Information or a video about the procedure may be available at your hospital. Ask your surgeon if you're unsure about anything.
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Read about how an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury is caused, and the considerations when deciding whether to have reconstructive surgery.
Read about the things you need to consider when deciding whether to have knee surgery, including your age, lifestyle, occupation and whether you play sports.
Information about preparing for knee surgery, including having physiotherapy to regain strength and mobility in your knee, and attending a pre-admission clinic.
Read about how anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) surgery is carried out, either using tissue taken from your own body (autograft) or tissue taken from a donor (allograft).
Read about the possible risks of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) surgery, including pain and swelling in the replacement ligament, infection or a blood clot.
Find out about recovering from anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) knee surgery, including advice about physiotherapy, gentle exercises and using painkillers.