Here are some important questions to ask your doctor before and after quadriceps tendon surgery:


Before Surgery

About the Procedure:

  • Can you explain exactly what will happen during the surgery?

  • Will you be using general anesthesia or regional anesthesia?

  • How long will the surgery take?

  • Will you be performing a a Transosseous Suture or a Suture Anchor repair?

Risks and Complications:

  • What are the possible risks and complications of this surgery?

  • How common are these complications?

  • What steps do you take to minimize complications?

Preparation for Surgery:

  • Should I stop taking any medications or supplements before surgery?

  • Do I need to fast, and if so, for how long?

  • Are there specific exercises or physical therapy I should do before surgery to improve outcomes?

Recovery Expectations:

  • What does the typical recovery timeline look like?

  • When can I expect to return to daily activities like walking or driving?

  • How soon will I begin physical therapy after surgery?

Pain Management:

  • How much pain should I expect after surgery, and how will it be managed?

  • Will I need prescription pain medication, and for how long?

Logistics and Practicalities:

  • Will I need any special equipment at home (brace, crutches, walker)?

  • How soon after surgery will I be able to go home?

  • Do I need someone to assist me at home, and for how long?


After Surgery

Immediate Post-Operative Care:

  • How did the surgery go? Were there any unexpected findings?

  • Are there specific signs or symptoms I should watch out for that would indicate complications?

Recovery and Rehabilitation:

  • When will I start physical therapy, and what will that involve?

  • How frequently will I have physical therapy sessions?

  • What specific exercises should I perform at home, and how often?

Pain and Medication Management:

  • How long should I expect significant pain or discomfort?

  • When should I start tapering off pain medications?

  • What non-medication options can help manage pain or swelling?

Activity and Lifestyle:

  • When can I safely put weight on my leg again?

  • When can I return to driving, working, or recreational activities?

  • What activities should I avoid to prevent reinjury?

Follow-Up and Monitoring:

  • How often should I return for follow-up visits?

  • What specific milestones or signs of progress will you be looking for at each visit?

  • When will the stitches or staples be removed?

Long-Term Outlook:

  • Are there long-term restrictions or limitations I should expect?

  • What is the likelihood of regaining full strength and range of motion?

  • Are there strategies or practices that can help reduce the risk of re-injury?


Feel free to tailor these questions to your specific concerns and situation.