Knee ligament repair surgery is a common procedure aimed at restoring stability and function to the knee after an injury. Understanding what to expect after surgery is crucial for a smooth recovery process. Here’s a comprehensive guide on post-operative care, recovery timelines, and rehabilitation.

Immediate Post-Operative Care

After the knee ligament repair surgery, you will spend some time in the recovery room. Medical staff will monitor your vital signs and pain levels. Once you are stable, you will be moved to a recovery area. It’s common to experience some swelling, bruising, and pain in the knee.

To manage post-operative discomfort:

• Follow the prescribed pain management regimen.
• Keep the leg elevated to reduce swelling.
• Apply ice packs to the knee if advised by your surgeon.

Follow-Up Appointments

Your surgeon will schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your healing process. These visits typically occur within a week or two after surgery. During these appointments, the doctor will check the surgical site for any signs of infection and assess your overall recovery. Be sure to communicate any concerns you have at these visits.

Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation

Physical therapy is a cornerstone of recovery after knee ligament repair surgery. A specialized rehabilitation program will likely be introduced within a few days post-surgery to help you regain strength and mobility. Here’s what you can generally expect:

• Initial Phase (0-2 weeks): Focus on reducing swelling and pain. Gentle range-of-motion exercises may be introduced.
• Intermediate Phase (2-6 weeks): As you recover, more active rehabilitation exercises targeting strength and stability will be added.
• Latter Phase (6+ weeks): Continue to improve strength, flexibility, and balance with more challenging exercises. Your therapist will guide you on when to safely return to sports or physical activities.

Symptoms to Watch For

While some discomfort is normal after surgery, be vigilant and report to your doctor if you experience:

• Increased swelling or redness around the surgical site.
• Persistent pain that is not alleviated by medication.
• Fever or chills, which may indicate infection.
• Difficulties in bending the knee.

Activity Restrictions

Initially, you will need to restrict certain activities to avoid reinjury. Your surgeon will provide guidance on:

• Weight-bearing limits: Using crutches or a brace may be advised.
• Avoiding high-impact activities: Running and jumping should be postponed until full recovery is achieved.
• Gradual return to normal activities: Plan for a slow and steady increase in activity levels.

Conclusion

Post-operative care after knee ligament repair surgery plays a crucial role in ensuring a successful recovery. Engage in physical therapy, adhere to your follow-up appointments, and follow your surgeon's recommendations for the best possible outcome. Remember that recovery times can vary depending on the type and extent of the ligament injury, so be patient and attentive to your body’s signals during this healing journey.