How you prepare

Before your surgery, you'll likely undergo several weeks of physical therapy. The goal before surgery is to reduce pain and swelling, restore your knee's full range of motion, and strengthen muscles. People who go into surgery with a stiff, swollen knee may not regain full range of motion after surgery

ACL reconstruction is an outpatient procedure, so you'll be able to go home the same day. Arrange for someone to drive you home.

Food and medications

Tell your surgeon about any medications or dietary supplements you take. If you regularly take blood-thinning medications, your doctor may ask you to stop taking these types of drugs for at least a week before surgery to reduce your risk of bleeding.

Follow your doctor's instructions about when to stop eating, drinking and taking any other medication the night before your surgery.