ACL/PCL And Posterolateral Corner (PLC).pdf

POSTOPERATIVE INSTRUCTIONS FOR KNEE - ACL/PCL AND POSTEROLATERAL CORNER (PLC) SURGERY:

Wound care: loosen bandage if swelling or numbness occurs, remove surgical dressing 48 hours after surgery, and leave Steri-Strip tape in place until first appointment.
Medications: take prescription pain medication every 4 hours for 1-2 days, take 81 mg baby aspirin twice daily for 28 days, and use over-the-counter anti-inflammatory as needed.
Ice therapy: begin immediately after surgery, use ice machine as directed, and elevate extremity while icing.
Activity: maintain heel-touch weight bearing, elevate operative leg, and avoid activities that increase knee pain/swelling.
Exercise: begin exercises 3x daily starting the day after surgery, including heel slides, quad sets, ankle pumps, straight leg raises, and bending the knee.
Brace: keep brace locked in full extension at all times when upright or ambulating, and remove for exercises and periods of rest.
Diet: begin with clear liquids and light foods, and progress to normal diet if not nauseated.
Emergencies: contact Dr. Cole's practice hotline at 312-243-4244 for painful swelling, unrelenting pain, fever, redness, drainage, or difficulty breathing.
* Follow-up care: someone from Dr. Cole's team will call on the first day after surgery, and schedule a postoperative appointment 7-15 days from surgery.