Here are some important questions to ask your doctor before and after quadriceps tendon surgery:
Before Surgery
About the Procedure:
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Can you explain exactly what will happen during the surgery?
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Will you be using general anesthesia or regional anesthesia?
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How long will the surgery take?
- Will you be performing a a Transosseous Suture or a Suture Anchor repair?
Risks and Complications:
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What are the possible risks and complications of this surgery?
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How common are these complications?
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What steps do you take to minimize complications?
Preparation for Surgery:
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Should I stop taking any medications or supplements before surgery?
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Do I need to fast, and if so, for how long?
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Are there specific exercises or physical therapy I should do before surgery to improve outcomes?
Recovery Expectations:
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What does the typical recovery timeline look like?
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When can I expect to return to daily activities like walking or driving?
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How soon will I begin physical therapy after surgery?
Pain Management:
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How much pain should I expect after surgery, and how will it be managed?
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Will I need prescription pain medication, and for how long?
Logistics and Practicalities:
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Will I need any special equipment at home (brace, crutches, walker)?
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How soon after surgery will I be able to go home?
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Do I need someone to assist me at home, and for how long?
After Surgery
Immediate Post-Operative Care:
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How did the surgery go? Were there any unexpected findings?
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Are there specific signs or symptoms I should watch out for that would indicate complications?
Recovery and Rehabilitation:
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When will I start physical therapy, and what will that involve?
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How frequently will I have physical therapy sessions?
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What specific exercises should I perform at home, and how often?
Pain and Medication Management:
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How long should I expect significant pain or discomfort?
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When should I start tapering off pain medications?
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What non-medication options can help manage pain or swelling?
Activity and Lifestyle:
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When can I safely put weight on my leg again?
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When can I return to driving, working, or recreational activities?
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What activities should I avoid to prevent reinjury?
Follow-Up and Monitoring:
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How often should I return for follow-up visits?
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What specific milestones or signs of progress will you be looking for at each visit?
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When will the stitches or staples be removed?
Long-Term Outlook:
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Are there long-term restrictions or limitations I should expect?
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What is the likelihood of regaining full strength and range of motion?
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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.