my Dr. uses the allograft for older people who aren't going to be as hard on it as pro athlete or a young 20 year old competitive athlete. He uses the double bundle method. He uses a hamstring on pro or competitive Athlete's. I don't know if other doc's use the same anchor method as he does (see video) You need to discuss your options with your surgeon. Keep in mind they do a ton of ACL's up here and work very closely with Steadman.
I can tell you the femoral and spinal block were great; much better than general anesthesia. You can still be rendered "asleep" if you want but there's none of that hangover fog Just remember that once that block wears off, you need to have your pain meds and ice needs all ready to roll. The first 48 hours after the block wears off are not much fun but it improves quickly. I am off crutches already. I use one for balance only. Try to work on straightening out the knee and flexing the quad from the get go. It is painful but getting the quad to fire is critical. Your quad will not work after surgery.
Pain meds: I am assuming you have discussed pain control with your dr. If not, you really need to. Controlling pain is key to allowing your body to heal. the issue with constipation is real so be sure you have a couple of packs of stool softener and laxatives ready. Again discuss with your doctor. Your knee will be locked out straight and locked at "0" so make sure you can get to and from the bathroom OK.
Rehab: I had a pre operative rehab session where we completed all paperwork and then had an evaluation of my current condition and then a review of what to expect and a few very important exercises I started the day of surgery. This has already made a difference. Set up the first few appointments. The first rehab session was painful but tolerable. I did not take any pain meds other than advil today. (I have been off prescription meds since Saturday night. ) I don't like them.
