Theanterior cruciate ligament (ACL)is a primary stabilizing structure in the knee.
When it is injured or torn, repair requires an extensive recovery period.
While surgery is an option for management of anACL injury, treatment begins long before your surgery date.
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you’ve got the option to typically go home the same day as your surgery.
If you have anyproblems from anesthesia, you may need to be monitored in the hospital overnight.
You will also be asked to practice using crutches before your healthcare provider clears you to go home.
What to Wear
You do not need to wear anything special on the day of your surgery.
Bring loose-fitting, comfortable clothing to wear home from your surgery.
Bending your leg may be difficult or painful at first.
You may be asked to taper or stop any medications that affect bleeding, anesthesia, or wound healing.
Some medications can cause complications during or after surgery.
Surgery for an ACL repair doesnt usually happen until up to six weeks after the initial injury.
The biggest deciding factor in when to have surgery is the condition of the injured knee.
This usually requires intense physical therapy.
Tobacco use in particular is associated with slower healing after surgery.
A Word From Verywell
Surgery is just one piece of ACL repair.
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.Knee arthroscopy.
Johns Hopkins Medicine.Preparing for surgery.
Friedberg RP.Anterior cruciate ligament injury.
