Preparing for knee surgery can feel overwhelming. Whether it’s a total knee replacement, an ACL repair, or another orthopedic procedure, knowing the right questions to ask your surgeon can make a huge difference in your recovery.
As a nurse with over 30 years of experience — and a patient who’s been through surgery myself — I can’t stress enough how important it is to be informed before your procedure.
Here are some essential questions to ask your surgeon before your surgery day arrives:
1. What specific procedure are you recommending, and why?
Sometimes there are multiple surgical options depending on your condition. Understanding exactly what will be done — and why it’s the best option for you — will help you feel more confident and prepared.
2. What are the potential risks and complications?
Every surgery carries some level of risk. It’s important to know what side effects, complications, or challenges could happen during or after surgery. Knowing these in advance allows you to plan for the “what ifs” — not just the ideal outcome.
3. What should I do to prepare for surgery?
Your surgeon may recommend exercises (sometimes called “prehab”), dietary changes, or stopping certain medications before surgery. Following pre-surgery instructions carefully can help make your recovery faster and smoother.
4. What will my recovery timeline look like?
Ask for realistic expectations. Will you need a walker or crutches? When will you likely return to work, driving, or exercising? Understanding the stages of recovery helps you plan your home setup and support system.
5. What type of anesthesia will be used?
Knowing whether you’ll have general anesthesia, spinal anesthesia, or a nerve block can help you mentally prepare for the day of surgery and ask additional questions about side effects or recovery time from the anesthesia itself.
6. Will I need physical therapy afterward?
Most knee surgeries require some type of rehabilitation. Ask how soon therapy will start, whether you’ll need outpatient therapy, or if you’ll be doing exercises at home. Physical therapy is key to a full and strong recovery.
7. What pain management strategies will be used?
Pain control is one of the biggest concerns after surgery. Find out what medications you’ll be given, how to manage pain at home, and whether there are alternative therapies like icing or compression recommended alongside medication.
8. Are there any restrictions I should know about?
You’ll likely have limits on how much you can walk, lift, bend, or twist right after surgery. Knowing these restrictions beforehand will help you arrange your home environment and daily activities safely.
Final Thoughts:
Remember — there are no “dumb” questions when it comes to your health. Surgeons expect and welcome your questions, and being informed is one of the best ways to set yourself up for a successful recovery.
Take a notebook to your appointments, jot down the answers, and don’t be afraid to ask for clarification if something isn’t clear.
You are your own best advocate — and the more you know, the better you’ll heal.
