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ACL Reconstruction / Knee Reconstruction FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Below is a list of common questions regarding ACL reconstruction surgery.  Please contact us should you have any further queries.

When can I walk after ACL Reconstruction Surgery?

You will be able to mobilise on crutches after your surgery with the help of physiotherapists.  You should use the crutches for 2 weeks to help with balance and gait.  By 2 weeks you should be able to walk without them.  You will likely have a limp until 4-6 weeks post op.

When can I swim after ACL reconstruction?

Once your surgical incisions have fully healed (normally at 2 weeks) you can get into the pool.

When can I drive after ACL reconstruction?

If it is your non-operative side, you can drive when you are not taking strong pain medications.  If it is your operative side, it is when you have regained muscle control of your leg so that you can control a car safely – typically 4-6 weeks.

How often do ACL reconstructions re-rupture?

This depends on a range of factors: patient age, sports/activity, gender, alignment etc.  In the literature the rates vary from 3-20%.

When can I return to work after ACL reconstruction?

This depends on the type of work you are doing.  Office or computer based activities can be commenced after a few days.  Manual labourers and more physical roles typically will take 6 weeks.

When type of ACL reconstruction does Dr Slattery do and why?

Dr Slattery in most cases uses a quadruple strand hamstring autograft which is fixed with buttons.  This technique is used because it has excellent results and very low complications. It is one of the strongest and most reliable grafts with excellent long term survival in high demand athletes.

To book an appointment please contact Dr Slattery’s rooms on
03 5752 5020 mobile
We aim to see all fractures within 24hrs