Pre Surgery Preparation
It is well known that when an acutely injured knee undergoes surgery on the emergent basis for
ACL reconstruction, patients have a very difficult time regaining normal knee motion equal
to the opposite uninjured leg. For that reason, Dr. Sanders always waits for the initial swelling
and pain to subside. Surgery is best scheduled on the elective, rather than emergency basis, after
patients can walk normally and have normal knee motion. Patients are immediately started on a
specialized reconditioning program, extending several weeks before surgery.
Reconditioning Program
The Reconditioning Program is designed to enable patients to
take weight on their knee and regain normal use of the limb control before surgery, in order
to achieve optimal postoperative results and a rapid return to activity. The program includes
range of motion exercises, quadriceps reeducation, nutritional supplements, use of a cold-compression
device know as the Cryocuff, and medications for pain and inflammation that may follow. The
healthier, more psychologically ready, and the better informed a patient is before surgery,
the more rapid their recovery is likely to be. The reconditioning program ensures optimal post
surgery results. Dr. Sanders outlines the program to the patient and their parents or spouse, in
order to help everyone understand the challenges and establish a partnership between patient, family
and physician. This approach helps patients and their families overcome the effects of surgery, while
regaining strength and resumption of daily activities.
Anesthesia
The surgery requires anesthesia. The anesthesiologist is a doctor of medicine, who administers
anesthesia based on patient information and health assessment. Before surgery, patients visit
their attending anesthesiologist, who can address any questions or concerns patients have regarding
the anesthesia to be used.
