How Do I Repair the ACL With a Hamstring Graft?
Things You'll Need
- Physical exam
- Blood tests
- Urine test
Instructions
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Get examined by your physician. Undergo a physical examination to determine if you're able to have surgery. A physical exam will include your medical history, blood tests and a urine test. If you have a history of heart disease, the doctor may also need an X-ray of your chest.
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Meet with a physical therapist before your scheduled surgery. Seeing a physical therapist can help prepare you for the outcome of your surgery, which may include learning how to walk on crutches and the exercises needed to strengthen your knee.
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Portal holes will be drilled into your knee. Undergo surgery using either general anesthesia or a spinal anesthesia. Expect the surgeon to make portals, or openings, into your knee for the surgical instruments to be inserted in order to perform the hamstring graft.
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Allow your surgeon to place a tube in your knee. This tube provides drainage to prevent fluid retention around your knee.
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Let your surgeon place a CPM (continuous passive motion) machine on your knee after your surgery. The machine will use motion to help release stiffness in your knee.
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See your surgeon the day after your surgery to have the tube removed from your knee. Get fitted for a knee brace and wear the brace as recommended by your surgeon.
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