When you visit your orthopedic surgeon, the goal is threefold.

1. Number one, we want to restore you to “normal” functioning.

2. Number two, we want to get you pain-free.

3. And number three, we want to ensure that you get back to doing the things that you love on a consistent basis. 

This third point refers to something I like to call “Activity Preservation.”

 In the past, the major focus was on the first two goals.

But more and more I am dealing with people who come to me and say “Doc, I really want to get back to playing a high level of basketball, how can we make that happen,” or (often in my case) “I’m a world-class skier and I need to get back to those heights.” 

So (at least in my practice), we're trying to lead the process with a focus on Activity Preservation.

I want you to be able to return to the lifestyle you enjoyed pre-injury, while still having as little pain as possible. So, when you go in to visit your surgeon, ask them about what your options are to help you to continue doing the things you love.

(Here's a little video further explaining the concept of activity preservation):

What is the The Tegner Score?

Because of the new focus on Activity Preservation, we’ve started using the Tegner Scoring System to evaluate up front what type of activity preservation you want to do. 

The Tegner scale is basically a form that lists the "level" of activity that you want to be at.  Based on that, we can ascertain what the best treatment plan of action for you is.

Download your Tegner Score sheet here...

Keeping that in mind, here are 25 general questions to ask your orthopedic surgeon before the surgery, courtesy of the AOSS:*

(I've also included a couple of videos in here that answer some of the more common questions that I receive, at the bottom of the page.)

the Basic Questions to ask before ACL Surgery

First let’s start with the basics. Your surgeon should answer these questions right off the bat along with a surgery recommendation:

1. Why is this procedure being recommended?

2. Are there any alternatives?

3. What are the benefits of this procedure in terms of: pain relief, functioning/mobility?

4. How long will the benefit last?

risk factor questions for acl surgery

Any surgical procedure carries inherent risk factors. Make sure you pose these risk-factor questions before your surgery.

1. What are the risks involved for this prodedure?

2. What is the normal success rate for this procedure?

technical questions for acl surgery

Next up, let’s look at some of the “technical” questions that are important when considering ACL surgery.

1. What is this particular procedure called?

2. How is the procedure done?

3. Will this surgery solve the problem?

4. Will any more surgery be required in the future?

5. Is this a procedure that is performed often at this hospital? If so, how often?

6. What kind of anesthesia will be used?

7. Will I meet with the anesthesiologist in advance? How will he or she know my needs/allergies?

outcome questions for your acl surgery

You outcome will be specific to you. However, based upon evaluation before surgery, we will often have a fairly good idea about the outcome. Consider asking these questions to better ascertain what your particular outcome may be after surgery.

1. What % of patients have a marked improvement after the procedure?

2. What's the outcome if I don't have the surgery at this time?

3. Who can I consult for a second opinion?

4. Are there any materials about this surgery that I can review?

5. Will I need any tests or medical evaluations prior to the surgery?

6. If pertinent, what kind of implant or prosthesis will be used? What are the outcomes using this device? How long will it last?

7. Are there possible after effects or additional risks?

8. Will I have any pain after the procedure?

9. What pain relief or pain control measures will I be given?

ACL Surgery Recovery Questions

After you have your surgery, it’s time for recovery. Here are some questions to ask about the recovery process.

1. How long will the recovery take?

2. What are my limitations during recovery?

3. Will I need assistance at home afterwards? For how long? What will discharge instructions be?

4. Will I have any disability following surgery?

5. Will I need physical therapy?

6. When can I return to work? When can I drive my car?

This is a long list to remember, so jot the questions down in a notebook or in your cellphone notes program and bring it with you when you discuss with your orthopedic surgeon.

Here are the videos I promised...

*Source: orthoinfo.aoss.org