If you’ve scheduled ACL reconstruction surgery, it’s natural to have questions about what will happen on the day of your procedure. Understanding the process can help you feel more prepared and confident as you begin your recovery.
At Tennessee Orthopaedic Alliance (TOA), our orthopedic specialists guide patients through every step of ACL treatment, from diagnosis and surgery to rehabilitation and recovery. Knowing what to expect before, during, and after surgery can help you focus on healing and achieving the best possible outcome.
Preparing for ACL Surgery
Before your surgery, your orthopedic surgeon will provide detailed instructions to help you prepare. These may include when to stop eating and drinking, which medications you should take or temporarily discontinue, and when to arrive at the surgical facility.
Be sure to arrange for someone to drive you home after surgery, as you will not be able to drive yourself following anesthesia. Wearing loose, comfortable clothing and bringing any requested paperwork or medical information can also help make your day go more smoothly.
If you have questions before your procedure, don’t hesitate to discuss them with your care team so you know exactly what to expect.
What Happens During ACL Reconstruction Surgery?
ACL reconstruction is typically performed as an outpatient procedure, meaning most patients return home the same day. During surgery, your orthopedic surgeon reconstructs the torn ligament using a tissue graft. The specific surgical technique and graft choice depend on your injury, anatomy, activity level, and your surgeon’s recommendations.
The procedure is commonly performed using arthroscopy, which utilizes a small camera and specialized instruments inserted through small incisions around the knee. This minimally invasive approach allows the surgeon to evaluate the knee joint and perform the reconstruction while minimizing disruption to surrounding tissues.
Throughout the procedure, your surgical team carefully monitors your comfort and safety.
Recovery Immediately After ACL Surgery
Following surgery, you’ll spend time in a recovery area while the effects of anesthesia begin to wear off. Before you leave, your care team will provide instructions regarding pain management, incision care, weight-bearing, brace use if prescribed, and activity restrictions.
Many patients begin gentle movement and physical therapy shortly after surgery as directed by their surgeon. Early rehabilitation is an important part of restoring knee motion and supporting long-term recovery.
Recovery timelines vary from person to person, and your surgeon will explain what milestones you can expect during the healing process.
The Importance of Following Your Recovery Plan
Successful ACL recovery extends well beyond the operating room. Carefully following your surgeon’s instructions and participating in physical therapy are essential components of rehabilitation.
Regular follow-up appointments allow your orthopedic team to monitor healing, evaluate knee stability, and adjust your rehabilitation plan as you progress. Returning to sports or high-impact activities too soon may increase the risk of reinjury, so it’s important to follow medical guidance throughout recovery.
Working closely with your orthopedic surgeon and physical therapist helps ensure your recovery stays on track.
When to Visit TOA Orthopedic Urgent Care
Not every knee injury requires immediate surgery, but prompt evaluation is important after a sudden twist, fall, sports injury, or direct impact to the knee. TOA Orthopedic Urgent Care provides same-day walk-in care for many non-life-threatening orthopedic injuries, including suspected ACL tears, knee sprains, sports injuries, fractures, and acute joint pain.
With on-site X-rays and access to orthopedic specialists, TOA can quickly evaluate your injury and determine whether additional imaging, rehabilitation, or surgical consultation is appropriate.
Expert ACL Care at Tennessee Orthopaedic Alliance
Whether you’ve recently injured your knee or are preparing for ACL reconstruction, the experienced orthopedic team at Tennessee Orthopaedic Alliance is here to help. We provide comprehensive ACL injury care, surgical treatment, rehabilitation, and Orthopedic Urgent Care throughout Knoxville, Oak Ridge, Sevierville, Lenoir City, Alcoa, and surrounding East Tennessee communities.
If you’ve experienced a knee injury, visit your nearest TOA Orthopedic Urgent Care location for prompt evaluation or schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists to discuss the best treatment plan for your recovery.
