ACL surgery

J

jskibo

Done
I've had an ACL Tear for a few decades. Hasn't been much of an issue as I can jog, skate, play hockey and I've learned to live with it. Now that I'm getting a bit older I'm thinking of getting it repaired finally.

Other than getting range of movement back to functionally work the rudder pedals, any other restrictions to flying post surgery and rehab?
 
I know this is a different injury, but I recently I had an ac tear (collar bone ligaments) repaired arthroscopically, and am currently grounded (self determined ). The AME will ask about any surgeries within past 3 years and for thorough reports from the surgeon, and a note testifying to your fitness for flight . As long as you are not on pain meds, you should be fine once you have recovered and are able to perform normal duties. Not a professional here, but I've had multiple surgeries and obtained first class medicals after.
 
Last edited:
Two ACL surgeries here. My recovery and rehab was very different from my first surgery to my second. I'll spare you the details but you may want to ask your doctor what the plan is for surgery and physical therapy. Also, do you plan to use an allograft (donor tendon) or autograft (your own muscle or tendon) to replace your torn ACL? I have had both, recovery was easier with the allograft because my body was only repairing one thing. Though, as I found out later, the allograft has a higher failure rate.

As far as flying, my second doctor did not want me to fly for six months after my surgery. Basically, he didn't want me using my quadriceps at all because he said every time the quadriceps flexed it strained the autograft. Your doctor may disagree. Just be sure to ask many questions and visit a few doctors before you decide.

Finally, I have had no problems renewing my first class medical.

Feel free to PM me with any questions.
 
Thanks for all the info!!

Haven't picked a doctor here yet and will shop around ot the extent my insurance will let me. Last Doc I had was at the VA in St. Louis, happened to be the Rams Ortho at the time too. Should have just got it done then, but I just started at Boeing and we were cutting back (what's new....) and I didn't want to be out / hobbling for excessive amounts of time.

Will have to time this one right as well.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top