Here are some important questions to consider asking:

Before Surgery:

  1. About the Injury and Diagnosis:
    • How severe is my quadriceps tendon injury?
    • What are the risks of delaying or avoiding surgery?
  2. About the Procedure:
    • What surgical technique will you use to repair my tendon?
    • How long will the surgery take, and what type of anesthesia will be used?
    • What are the potential risks or complications associated with this surgery?
  3. Preparation:
    • What do I need to do to prepare for the surgery (e.g., fasting, medications)?
    • Should I stop taking any medications or supplements before surgery?
  4. Recovery Expectations:
    • How long will I need to stay in the hospital?
    • When can I start walking, driving, or returning to work?
    • Will I need crutches, a knee brace, or other assistive devices after surgery?
  5. Rehabilitation Plan:
    • What is the plan for physical therapy, and when will it start?
    • What are the milestones I should aim for during recovery?
  6. Pain and Medication:
    • What can I expect in terms of post-surgery pain, and how will it be managed?
    • Are there any side effects of the prescribed pain medications?
  7. Outcomes:
    • What is the likelihood of a full recovery?
    • Are there any long-term limitations I should expect?

After Surgery:

  1. About Recovery Progress:
    • Is my recovery on track, based on your observations and any imaging results?
    • What signs should I watch for that may indicate complications?
  2. Wound Care and Activity:
    • How do I care for my surgical wound to prevent infection?
    • When can I start putting weight on my leg, and what movements should I avoid?
  3. Physical Therapy:
    • Can you explain the exercises I should focus on during each phase of recovery?
    • How will physical therapy progress over the next few weeks or months?
  4. Pain and Discomfort:
    • Is the level of pain I’m experiencing normal at this stage?
    • Should I continue taking pain medication, and for how long?
  5. Complications:
    • What are the signs of complications, such as infection, blood clots, or re-injury, and what should I do if I notice them?
    • How can I reduce the risk of re-injury?
  6. Long-Term Outcomes:
    • Will I regain full strength and range of motion in my leg?
    • When can I safely return to activities like sports, lifting weights, or other high-impact activities?
  7. Follow-Up:
    • How often will I need follow-up visits?
    • Are there any tests or imaging studies I’ll need during my recovery?

Additional Notes:

  • Personal Concerns: Share any personal goals or lifestyle needs (e.g., returning to a physically demanding job or sports) and ask how surgery and recovery will align with them.
  • Support Resources: Ask about support groups, educational materials, or resources for patients recovering from similar surgeries.