Orthopedic Surgeon: ACL Recovery

An orthopedic surgeon often handles a variety of injuries. Running into a problem with your ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) means a surgery and time necessary for recovery. Before committing to the procedure, take the time to listen to your doctor's instructions and ask any questions that you have. Preparation for the procedure and the follow-up is the key to successfully navigating this situation. The Surgery: For the most part, an orthopedic surgeon will choose to do an arthroscopic surgery. With smaller incisions there is less risk that a traditional open surgery. It begins with a diagnostic to figure out how much damage was done. Next, the doctor will be able to begin the repair. Patients go under general anesthesia during the procedure and the amount of time it takes to complete depends on the damage discovered by the physician. This performed on an outpatient basis so there is no need to spend the night at a hospital. If there are complications or other issues are discovered during the procedure, it could mean an extended stay at a hospital until the next course of action is determined. Recovery: Once the procedure is complete, an orthopedic surgeon bandages the area to protect the incisions and constrict mobility. From there a patient is transported to the recovery room to rest for a few hours. After coming out of the anesthesia, the patient is moved to his or her home. This cannot be done alone and someone will need to come and pick up the patient and continue to stay with them for the next few days, if possible. The incision needs to be cared for daily. At first, a patient shouldn't shower as this could cause problems. The area should be kept completely dry. Consistently look for potential signs of infection. If it occurs, this could cause complications that will make recovery more difficult. Mobility is strictly limited in the beginning. A brace is used to keep the leg in place. Most people have to wear it weeks after the procedure is complete. The orthopedic surgeon can decide when it is time to put the brace aside and walk without its assistance. Finally, an orthopedic surgeon will prescribe physical therapy or rehabilitation. The area needs to be gently guided back into use. The amount of time required varies from person to person, but it isn't unusual to be involved in therapy for the next couple of months. Standing for long amounts of time and strenuous activities such as sports are discouraged. The body needs time to heal completely before it can get back to its previous routine.