Preparing for Major Knee Surgery
ACL reconstruction, multi-ligament reconstruction, meniscus repair, cartilage restoration, osteotomy
Reconstructive knee surgery with a structured recovery. You'll be on crutches and in a brace initially, and physical therapy starts within the first week — set it up before surgery.
Have These at Home Before Surgery
Set these up ahead of time so they're waiting for you when you get home.
Ice system
Consistent icing is essential for swelling and pain control. Options from simple to deluxe: large gel packs, an Iceman-style cold therapy cooler, or a GameReady-type compression-and-ice device.
Shop on AmazonPost-op bandage supplies
Sterile gauze pads and large waterproof adhesive dressings for incision care after the surgical dressing comes off.
Shop on AmazonPain & clot-prevention medications
Fill all prescriptions BEFORE surgery day. If aspirin is part of your clot-prevention plan, have it at home — your pre-op paperwork lists the dose.
Prescription pain medication must be filled at your pharmacy — it cannot be purchased online.
Shop on AmazonBring These on Surgery Day
Pack these the night before and bring them to the surgery center.
Crutches
You will be non-weight-bearing or partial weight-bearing at first. Bring adjustable crutches, fitted to your height, to the surgery center.
Shop on AmazonKnee immobilizer
A straight-leg knee immobilizer protects your reconstruction when you're up and moving early on. Bring it with you the day of surgery.
Shop on AmazonLoose shorts or sweatpants
Loose-fitting bottoms that fit over a bulky dressing and immobilizer.
Set Up Physical Therapy
Schedule your first physical therapy visit before your surgery date — therapy typically starts within the first week after surgery. Enter your ZIP code to find a PT provider we recommend near you.
PT Directory Coming Soon
We're building our directory of preferred physical therapy providers. In the meantime, call our team at 410-268-4717 and we'll recommend a PT practice near you for your procedure.
Optional — Nice to Have
Not required, but many patients find these make recovery more comfortable.
Raised toilet seat
Reduces deep knee bending during the first weeks, when getting up and down is hardest.
Shop on AmazonScar care (silicone, vitamin E, or Mederma)
After incisions fully heal, silicone sheets, vitamin E oil, or Mederma can improve scar appearance. Start only after our team clears you.
Shop on AmazonThis is general guidance for our practice's most common procedures. Your specific instructions from Dr. Petre's team always take priority. Questions? Call our clinical line at 410-268-4717.