In a few weeks I am going to have reconstructive sugery for my ACL?

Question

I have about 4 questions here:
Some of my friends told me that they will record your surgery and take pictures for reference and to use for studies and such

1. Is that true?

AND...

2. Can I get a copy of those pics? I want some.

3. How come you cant wear fingernail polish during surgery? I heard its b./c it will react with the anesthsia(sp?) and can cuase problems

4. Does anybody know how long it will take me to recover from the surgery? Will my leg hurt like crazy?

Answer 1

Ans to Qu 1 & 2. Depends on the hospital. Some hospitals allow you to keep the recording as well as the ligament!!!

Qu. 3. No idea. But generally, all foreign objects are not allowed in the OT. e. contact lenses, dentures, etc.

Qu. 4. If you are good with your physio therapy, you should be back to running in about 6 months. Leg will balloon in the first few weeks, and it will not be comfortable. Crutches for 6 weeks. With a leg brace for another 4 weeks.

Good luck with the op and make sure they operate on the correct leg!!!

Answer 2

I'll try to explain as briefly as I can with all 4 questions.

1. Usually they will take either snapshots or video footage of inside your knee BUT they need your consent to do this. It is kept as a future reference for any more trouble with your knee. Under certain circumstances it might be used for research but I doubt it and again they need your consent!

2. You have to discuss that option with your surgeon and it certainly may be possible to obtain some of the pictures.

3. You can't wear fingernail polish during surgery because it may contain all sorts of charming chemicals that may react with the electro cautery machine ...ie fingernail polish is flammable...electro cautery is an electric current to stop blood vessals bleeding. It wouldn't be good to start a fire in the OR eh?
4. Everybody is different with their recovery times. During the first 24-48 hours you shouldn't feel much at all. It depends on whether they perform a nerve block on the leg as well. Just follow the doc's instructions TO THE LETTER and everything should go fine.

I hope this is of some help for you....good luck with the surgery!

Answer 3

pictures are taken only with your signed consent.

The anesthesia person places a pulse oximeter and an oxygen sensor on your finger, the polish will render the sensors ineffective and they are very important while you are asleep.

As far as recovery time; if they are having to cut your knee open then you'll be in a protective brace or cast for approx. 8 weeks. Arthroscopic you're looking at about 4 to six weeks.

Is the surgery necessary? I've had a torn ACL for many years and have had no trouble. Do you play sports?

Answer 4

1. They do take pictures
2. You do get a copy -- your doctor will give it to you at your first follow up appointment.
3. You can't wear fingernail polish because the anesthesiologist presses your fingernail to see how pink your nail bed is for oxygen levels.
4. It will take you around six weeks to recover, but you will see it is not NEARLY as bad as you expected.

Good luck!

Answer 5

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