Frequently Asked Questions

Questions Related to Appointments

• What should I bring to my first consultation?

  Please bring all previous medical documents, reports, X-rays, and MRI scans with you. There is no need to have a separate X-ray taken beforehand, as the appropriate views – including weight-bearing images if necessary – will be arranged by your doctor at our clinic.
  Any information regarding your health condition may be useful. It is important for us to know what medications you are taking, what allergies you may have, and whether you currently have any other health issues.
  In case of lower limb complaints, loose-fitting trousers or, for ladies, possibly a skirt are recommended for comfort reasons.

• How long does the examination take?

  The initial musculoskeletal examination takes 15 minutes, while follow-up examinations take 10 minutes. During this time, only one body area can be examined. If you would like to discuss multiple problematic areas, please book multiple appointments accordingly.

• Do you provide MRI scans?

  Unfortunately, MRI examinations are not yet available at our clinic. However, we can arrange appointments with our partner facilities for our patients within a short period of time.

• Where can I get an MRI scan?

  There are several state-run and private MRI facilities operating throughout the country. For MRI examinations covered by public health insurance, a referral from a state hospital or outpatient clinic is required. No referral is needed for private MRI examinations, which currently cost approximately HUF 50,000–60,000 per scan.

• Is it necessary to get a new MRI if my previous one was taken about 9 months ago?

  There is no universally applicable answer to this question, but if there has been no significant change in your condition since the MRI – such as a new injury – then in most cases it is not necessary.

• Do you perform ultrasound examinations?

  Musculoskeletal ultrasound examinations are available as a complement to orthopedic consultations. However, we currently do not operate a separate ultrasound department.

• Do you provide X-ray examinations?

  Yes, we provide the images to our patients on CD without a radiology report. Radiological evaluation can be arranged upon special request.

• How much does an X-ray examination cost?

  The current price per X-ray image can be found under the “PRICES” section on the PASAMED website. To establish a diagnosis, 2 or sometimes 3 – and only rarely more – images of a body part may be required.

• Can I pay with a health insurance fund card?

  Currently, this is not possible. Patients can later claim reimbursement from their health insurance fund based on the issued invoice.

• Can you issue invoices for health insurance funds?

  Of course, we are contracted with most health insurance funds.

• Are delays common?

  As in every healthcare institution, delays are sometimes unavoidable here as well, although they are not typical.

• If this is a private clinic, why do you ask for my social security number?

  Our doctors are authorized to prescribe state-subsidized medications and medical aids even in private practice settings. Your social security number is required for issuing prescriptions.

• Can you issue sports medical certificates?

  Unfortunately, we are currently not authorized to issue competitive sports medical certificates.

• I have a 4/5/11-year-old child. Which doctor should I bring them to?

  Treating young children is not the primary focus of PASAMED doctors; however, several of our physicians do see children. When booking an appointment, please ask our administrators for advice based on the child’s age and the affected body area. Orthopedic screening for newborns and young children is provided by our colleague Dr. Lőrinc Ijjas.

• I can’t reach you by phone. What should I do?

  Please carefully check the available registration hours on our website. If our lines are continuously busy due to a high volume of calls, please send us an SMS or email so that one of our dispatch colleagues can contact you.

  Phone / SMS: +36 30/408-1265 e-mail: info@pasamed.com

• What type of cartilage treatment do you recommend?

  There are several options available, including treatments administered in a series (3–5 sessions) or as a single injection. The appropriate treatment will depend on your doctor’s recommendation and the condition of your joint.

• What type of injections do you use?

  We use various “cartilage-rebuilding” injections containing hyaluronic acid, and much less frequently steroid injections.

  If you are interested in PRP treatment, this is also available at our clinic.

• Where can I obtain the injection?

  The injections required for the treatment are available at the clinic, and their prices can be found on our website.

• Can I drive after receiving the injection?

  In almost all cases, yes. However, if possible, we recommend arriving with someone who can drive you home if necessary.

• Can I ask the doctor questions by email?

  Emails should be addressed to our administrator at info@pasamed.com. If your inquiry is strictly medical in nature, it will be forwarded to the appropriate physician.

• What kind of physiotherapy is necessary and for how long?

  This always depends on your specific injury. In most cases, a minimum of 3–5 sessions is recommended, while after more serious surgeries up to six months of physiotherapy may be necessary. Some patients continue exercising regularly for years, for example to prevent spinal problems. The frequency and duration are determined based on the recommendations of the physiotherapist and the treating physician.

• I asked my general practitioner whether I could receive travel expense reimbursement, but they told me only the treating physician can issue the necessary document. Could you please let me know whether this is possible?

  Currently, travel expense reimbursement is only available within the public healthcare system.

Questions about surgery

• Where does the doctor perform surgeries?

  Currently, all PASAMED doctors primarily perform surgeries in private hospitals. In some of these private hospitals, certain surgeons also have limited opportunities to perform state-funded (NEAK) major sports surgery, joint replacement, and day-surgery procedures. It is important to know that waiting times for NEAK-funded surgeries can range from a few months up to 2 years, depending on the type of surgery. Our administrators are happy to answer your questions regarding surgical locations and financing options, and they can also connect you with the case manager of the selected hospital.

• How long will I need to stay in the hospital after surgery?

  In the case of day surgeries (e.g. cartilage procedures), patients usually stay until the day of surgery or occasionally until the following morning. After knee ligament or shoulder surgeries, a 1–2 night stay is common, while joint replacement surgeries typically require 2–3 days in the surgical department followed by approximately 3 weeks in a rehabilitation unit.

• What examinations are required before surgery?

  Blood and urine tests, chest X-ray, and ECG are required. After these examinations, an anesthesiology consultation is necessary, and in certain hospitals (e.g. Kelen Hospital), an internal medicine examination may also be required. Your surgeon and our administrators can provide precise information depending on the hospital.

• Can I have these examinations done elsewhere?

  Yes, of course. However, due to current healthcare regulations, general practitioners can only rarely provide referrals for these tests.

• Can I attend the anesthesiology consultation elsewhere?

  The preoperative anesthesiology consultation is conducted at the location of the surgery, as this is in your best interest.

• Who will perform my surgery?

  With very few exceptions, the surgery will be performed by your doctor – the same physician who established the surgical indication. In rare cases, your treating physician may recommend another surgeon.

• Is it possible to request a private room during my hospital stay?

  Yes, in most hospitals and day-surgery institutions this is possible. Arrangements should be made in advance directly with the head nurse of the institution.

• Who should I contact with professional or medical questions? How can I reach the doctor?

  Our doctors do not provide 24-hour emergency availability. Please try to ask your questions during consultations whenever possible. In particularly urgent cases, questions may be submitted by email, SMS, or phone. If acute symptoms occur after surgery – such as fever, suspected infection, or severe illness – please contact emergency services, visit the nearest emergency department, or call the on-duty service of the hospital where the surgery was performed.

• How long will I need to use crutches?

  The duration of crutch use depends on the condition or injury of your joint. Most commonly, sports injuries require up to 1–2 weeks of crutch use, joint replacement surgeries approximately 4 weeks, and cartilage surface treatment procedures around 6–8 weeks.

• How long will I need to wear a brace?

  The duration of brace use depends on the condition or injury of your joint. In most cases, wearing a brace is necessary for approximately 3–6 weeks.

• How much will the surgery cost?

  Some PASAMED surgeons are able to perform surgeries fully funded by NEAK.

  Even in private hospitals, and also in NEAK-funded procedures, patients should expect an additional so-called “comfort/hotel” service fee. The costs of surgeries performed under private conditions are not fixed amounts and may vary depending on several factors. Approximate pricing information is available on the websites of the respective hospitals, while our administrators can assist you in contacting the relevant hospital case managers, who will discuss the final costs with you directly.

  After certain surgeries, medical aids may be required costing approximately HUF 10,000–25,000, and blood-thinning injections may also need to be purchased.

• How long will I need to stay at home after surgery?

  The recovery period depends on the condition or injury of your joint and your lifestyle. After minor procedures, office work may be resumed after 5–7 days, while after major surgeries physical work may only be possible after up to six months. Your surgeon will provide you with more detailed information.

• When will I be able to drive after surgery?

  The time when you can start driving again depends on the condition or injury of your joint, the type of vehicle you drive (manual or automatic transmission), and which limb was operated on. After minor surgeries, driving may be possible after 5–7 days, while after major surgeries it may take 4–8 weeks. Your surgeon will provide more detailed information.

• Will I be able to drive myself home after surgery?

  Driving is prohibited after surgery due to the medications used during anesthesia. Public transportation is also not recommended, so please arrange your journey home in advance.

• What does day surgery mean?

  This is essentially a healthcare financing category defined by the healthcare authorities. Under day surgery conditions, smaller and medium-scale procedures are usually performed, and in many cases patients do not even need to stay overnight in the hospital.

• How far is Bicske?

  Bicske is approximately 35 km from Budapest, which usually takes around 35–45 minutes depending on traffic conditions.

• If I already have an MRI scan, why is an X-ray still required before surgery?

  This is currently required by professional medical protocols. In many cases – for example when assessing the degree of joint wear – X-rays are more important than MRI scans.

• Where can I obtain crutches for the surgery?

  Our doctors can prescribe them for you, and they are available at medical supply stores.

• Where can I obtain a brace for the surgery?

  Our doctors can prescribe it for you, and it can be purchased at medical supply stores.

• What are the risks if I postpone my surgery until spring?

  This depends on the current condition of your joint, your activity level, luck, and many other factors. Your surgeon will provide more detailed information based on your personal condition.

• Is there an alternative to general anesthesia for surgery?

  For day-surgery procedures, light general anesthesia is usually the ideal solution, while for larger surgeries spinal anesthesia may also be an option.

• Are crutches necessary after surgery?

  The need for crutches depends on the condition or injury of your joint. Most commonly, sports injuries require up to 1–2 weeks of crutch use, joint replacement surgeries around 4 weeks, and cartilage surface treatment procedures approximately 6–8 weeks.

• How should I care for my leg at home after surgery (elevation, icing, etc.)?

  You will receive detailed written instructions together with your discharge summary. After surgery, 5–15 days of rest are important, along with icing the area 10 times daily for 20 minutes, elevating the leg using a folded pillow, and general rest. Naturally, the wound must not come into contact with water until the first dressing change.

• When can I start moving around the house?

  The recovery period depends on the condition or injury of your joint and your lifestyle. Even after smaller surgeries, 3–4 days of bed rest are important. During this period, you should only get up for essential biological needs. Your surgeon will provide more detailed information.

• What symptoms are common during the first days after surgery?

  Swelling, pain, and a feeling of tightness may occur to varying degrees. Your surgeon will provide more detailed information.

• When should I seek medical attention, and what symptoms are not necessarily alarming?

  If you develop a fever above 38°C, chills, or significant swelling of the joint or lower leg after surgery, you should seek medical assistance immediately. Depending on the severity of the symptoms, contact your family doctor, emergency services, the on-duty department of the hospital where the surgery was performed, or your surgeon as soon as possible.

• When are the stitches removed?

  On average, between the 6th and 14th day after surgery.

• When can I put weight on my leg?

  The question “when can I bear weight” cannot be answered in general terms. Some patients mean crutch use by “weight-bearing,” and its duration varies: after smaller surgeries it may be 0–7 days, after ACL surgery 7–10 days, and after cartilage restoration, axis-correction, or joint replacement surgeries it may be 4–8 weeks. Weight-bearing may also refer to how long bed rest is necessary, which can vary significantly as well. Your surgeon will provide more detailed information.

• When can I lift or carry weight after surgery (e.g. a child)?

  As a general rule, during approximately the first week after surgery – and certainly throughout the full period of crutch use – lifting or carrying heavy weight is not recommended. Your surgeon will provide more detailed information.

• What are the risks of sudden weight-bearing on icy winter sidewalks or stairs?

  Slippery conditions definitely require increased caution. A sudden slip may worsen the condition of the operated limb.

• What are the risks if I start putting weight on my leg too early?

  Early weight-bearing may lead to increased joint pain and swelling.

• Is physiotherapy necessary during recovery?

  Physiotherapy performed during the weeks and months following surgery is generally beneficial. However, after certain minor procedures physiotherapy may not always be prescribed.

• When can I fully load my knee again?

  As a general rule, during approximately the first week after surgery – and certainly throughout the entire period of crutch use – full loading is not recommended. Initial sports activities such as cycling or swimming may begin a few weeks after stitch removal following smaller procedures. After larger surgeries, returning to heavy physical work or active sports may take longer than 6 months. Your surgeon will provide more detailed information.

• Can the same injury happen again?

  Unfortunately, yes. Logically speaking, if a completely healthy joint can be injured, then an operated joint may be even more vulnerable. However, the risk of reinjury is significantly higher among patients who do not follow the prescribed rehabilitation period.

• Can the knee be operated on multiple times, and if so, how often?

  Yes, if necessary. This is more common among professional athletes. Surgeries can be repeated, although not indefinitely. Every case requires individual assessment. Your surgeon will provide more detailed information.

• Do I need to appear in person for registration or the waiting list, or was this already arranged when I applied? (TEP)

  Patients indicate their intention for surgery either during the personal consultation or afterward by phone or email to our administrators, who then send detailed information regarding the required preoperative examinations. Even if another doctor has already established a completely clear surgical diagnosis (for example, arthroscopically confirmed ACL rupture), a personal consultation with one of our doctors is still required.

• When can surgery be expected? (TEP)

  The waiting list for knee replacement surgeries depends on both the surgeon and the hospital. Currently, waiting times range from a few months up to approximately 3 years. However, hospitals often receive additional funding each year to reduce waiting lists, meaning that surgeries are frequently performed significantly earlier than originally planned. One reason for the long waiting lists is that many patients register simultaneously at 5–6 different hospitals.

Indications and Surgical Preparation

• Is it possible to have another consultation with the doctor before surgery?

  Of course. This is also a basic expectation from our doctors’ side, as surgeries are not performed without a personal consultation. Due to our doctors’ schedules, however, we kindly ask you to book your preoperative consultation well in advance. A direct preoperative examination is especially important in cases where more than 6 months pass between the personal examination and the surgery, either because of waiting list duration or at the patient’s request.

• What does a meniscus surgery involve and how much downtime from physical activity does it require?

  This is an arthroscopic (joint endoscopy) procedure, most commonly performed under short, light general anesthesia. During the surgery, 2–3 small incisions of a few millimeters are made around the knee, and with the help of a video camera and specialized instruments the damaged cartilage is either removed or sutured back into place. A detailed description of the surgery can be sent upon request and is also available on our website. Light cycling may usually be resumed after 1–2 weeks, while more intensive sports activities can generally be planned after 3–6 weeks.

• What does the surgery consist of?

  During the surgery, 2–3 small incisions of a few millimeters are made around the knee. Using a video camera and specialized instruments, the damaged cartilage is either removed or sutured back into place. A detailed description of the procedure can be provided upon request.

• What result can be expected from the minor surgery? Complete relief from symptoms? (Currently I can only put weight on my left leg for about half an hour without pain.)

  After the surgery, joint locking, clicking, and significant pain often disappear immediately after waking up from anesthesia. Complete symptom relief can generally be expected; however, it is important to know that during the procedure a smaller or larger unusable portion of the “shock absorber” cartilage must be removed, meaning that in the long term the joint may wear somewhat faster. (If the damaged cartilage fragment is not removed, the joint may deteriorate rapidly while remaining painful and unstable.) Therefore, after surgery it is recommended to take cartilage-supporting supplements in treatment cycles.

• Will the fatigue and pain likely disappear after the minor surgery and removal of the detached cartilage, or are these symptoms probably caused by the ligament problem?

  After surgery, joint locking, clicking, and significant pain often disappear immediately after waking up from anesthesia. If the cartilage injury in your knee was caused by a known ligament rupture, it is worth correcting this at the same time as the cartilage surgery. If you prefer not to have the cartilage and ligament surgeries performed simultaneously, this may also be possible in certain cases.

• What complications may occur? How rare or common are they?

  As with all surgeries, complications such as infection, vascular inflammation, thrombosis, or embolism may unfortunately occur. Complications related to anesthesia are extremely rare but may in some cases be fatal. The average rate of infection is approximately 1–3%, while thrombosis and embolism occur in only a few per thousand cases, and are even significantly rarer in the most serious orthopedic surgeries.

• Are antibiotics necessary before, during, or after surgery?

  This depends on the type of surgery. If any kind of implant is inserted during the operation, antibiotics are always administered in the operating room. If, during surgery – most commonly in a previously operated joint – we observe any area suspicious for inflammation or infection, antibiotics will also be prescribed after surgery.

• Do I need to obtain crutches even after a minor surgery?

  If the procedure is expected to require it, our doctors will prescribe crutches in advance, which can then be obtained from medical supply stores. In rare cases, the surgeon may only determine during the operation that complete or partial unloading of the joint will be necessary during rehabilitation; in such cases, the crutches will be prescribed afterward.

• Restoring my athletic performance is extremely important to me. Will the semitendinosus graft recommended by the doctor withstand judo?

  Yes, it will. The tensile strength of the quadrupled hamstring tendons is greater than that of the patellar tendon below the kneecap, and the hamstring tendon technique generally interferes less with kneeling. At the same time, we also consider the patellar tendon technique excellent and can perform that procedure as well upon request.

• Is it possible to use absorbable implants during surgery? I also have an early-stage herniated disc, so MRI examinations may be very important in the future. I have previously experienced my body rejecting non-absorbable sutures, which caused severe inflammation and fistula formation until the sutures were removed.

  In certain strongly justified cases – such as metal allergy – yes, this is possible. However, our doctors generally prefer not to use absorbable screws and implants because, in many cases, smaller or larger bone cysts may form at the location where the absorbable implant dissolves instead of normal bone tissue.

• I would prefer a surgical technique without foreign materials, if possible, although I do not know much about it. If there is any information material available, I would appreciate it, or if the doctor could briefly explain it. What I am most curious about is: As far as I know, a tendon is taken from the lower part of the thigh? How is this tendon fixed above and below? Is any additional tissue needed for fixation? Is this surgery more complicated or risky than screw fixation?

  Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction using the patellar tendon with the so-called double press-fit technique generally does not require any foreign material. In cases where hamstring tendons are used, we typically apply one titanium plate approximately 8×4 mm in size and two fixation staples. There is no significant difference in the risk level between the two techniques.

• Will the implanted metal components need to be removed later?

  After ligament surgeries, removal is necessary in approximately 3–5% of cases. This usually occurs if the operated area becomes sensitive to weather changes or if an additional surgery becomes necessary due to reinjury.

Questions Related to Anesthesia

• Does the surgery обязательно have to be performed under spinal anesthesia? Can I request general anesthesia instead?

  An anesthesiology consultation will take place at the hospital approximately 1–3 weeks before the scheduled surgery date. During this consultation, you will have the opportunity to discuss any special requests or preferences. If your health condition does not contraindicate it, different anesthesia methods may be available for you to choose from.

• What should I know about spinal anesthesia beyond the commonly known things (temporary numbness of the legs, strict bed rest, catheter, etc.)?

  We usually recommend spinal anesthesia for larger surgeries. One of its advantages is that the surgical area often remains pain-free for a longer time after the operation, while placing only minimal strain on the body. The likelihood of requiring a urinary catheter is relatively high. In rare cases – primarily if the prescribed rest period is not followed – severe headaches may occur for a few days after surgery. PASAMED surgeons only leave a drainage tube in the joint after exceptionally rare procedures.

• If I undergo surgery under spinal anesthesia, may I bring a phone or music player so I do not have to listen to the sounds of the surgery?

  Please indicate such requests during the preoperative anesthesiology consultation or on the morning of the surgery. In principle, this can usually be arranged.

• How long does general anesthesia last?

  In fortunate cases, slightly longer than the surgery itself… If your body metabolizes anesthetic medications more slowly, waking up may take an additional 10–30 minutes after the operation has ended.

• When is it allowed to get up after surgery?

  This depends on the type of surgery and your overall condition. After smaller procedures, patients may get up on the same day of the surgery or by the following morning at the latest. Even after medium or major surgeries, assisted mobilization usually begins on the morning after surgery.

Questions Related to Rehabilitation

• Is it normal that my knee still hurts in different areas while walking (even though I can already walk on both legs, but only minimally inside the apartment), and that I feel stabbing pain in the back of my knee?

  The primary goal of surgery is, whenever possible, to achieve complete pain relief; however, unfortunately this is not achievable for every joint. Pain immediately after surgery is normal in most cases, but it should gradually decrease and usually disappears after 6–8 weeks. Your treating physician will provide more detailed information regarding your specific case.

• If my knee hurts while walking, should I return to using crutches, or should I try to push through it?

  The primary goal of surgery is, whenever possible, to achieve complete pain relief; however, unfortunately this is not achievable for every joint. Pain immediately after surgery is normal in most cases, but it should gradually decrease and usually disappears after 6–8 weeks. If you feel that you have overloaded the operated limb, elevation, icing, and temporarily reducing weight-bearing again may help. Your treating physician will provide more detailed information regarding your specific case.

• How long do I need to use blood-thinning injections?

  This depends on your health condition and the type of surgery. For smaller procedures, they are usually not necessary. For larger surgeries, they are generally required throughout the entire period of immobilization and crutch use. Your treating physician will provide more detailed information regarding your specific case.

• Is it abnormal that I still have significant bruising on my leg, including behind the knee and in the knee crease?

  This phenomenon commonly occurs for several weeks after ACL reconstruction, since the new ligament is taken from the back of the thigh. Lioton or Dolobene gel may have a beneficial effect. Your treating physician will provide more detailed information regarding your specific case.

• When can I go into water after surgery?

  Shortly after wound healing and/or removal of the brace. At that stage, however, neither hot thermal baths nor saunas are recommended. Your treating physician will provide more detailed information regarding your specific case.

• How many days should I rest or avoid bending the knee after surgery?

  This depends on the type of surgery. Unless you receive other restrictive instructions, you may bend your knee, but you should never force it. Your treating physician will provide more detailed information regarding your specific case.

• How long do I need to wear the rigid knee brace?

  This depends on the type of surgery. After ACL reconstruction, it is usually worn for approximately 3–4 weeks. Your treating physician will provide more detailed information regarding your specific case.

• How many days after surgery can I fly?

  This depends on the type of surgery and your current health condition. Unless you receive other restrictive instructions, short flights may be possible 1–2 weeks after smaller surgeries. After larger surgeries, and especially for long flights, the risk of thrombosis and embolism is increased, therefore waiting a few months is recommended. Your treating physician will provide more detailed information regarding your specific case.

• How many days after surgery can I swim?

  This depends on the type of surgery. Unless you receive other restrictive instructions, swimming may generally begin around 2 weeks after smaller knee surgeries, and approximately 2 months after ligament or joint replacement surgeries. In the early stages of rehabilitation, freestyle and backstroke swimming are primarily recommended. Your treating physician will provide more detailed information regarding your specific case.

• When should I come for a follow-up examination?

  Please schedule your first postoperative follow-up appointment approximately 7–14 days after the surgery date, ideally immediately after receiving your planned surgery date.

• Is there a possibility for state-funded physiotherapy (OEP/NEAK)?

  Currently, referrals from private clinics to public hospitals or outpatient facilities for physiotherapy are not possible. The physiotherapists working with PASAMED doctors are among the most experienced rehabilitation specialists for the conditions treated and operated on by PASAMED physicians. Their knowledge and experience are guaranteed. Individual or small-group physiotherapy ensures the appropriate quality of care, therefore we recommend using their services for the safest possible rehabilitation.

• Is it possible to request a referral for spa or therapeutic bath treatment?

  Currently, referrals from private clinics to public spa hospitals or therapeutic bath facilities are not possible.

• When can I go home after surgery?

  This depends on the type of surgery. After smaller knee surgeries, discharge is usually possible after 0–2 nights; after ligament surgeries after 2–3 nights; and after joint replacement surgeries after approximately 2–4 weeks. Your treating physician will provide more detailed information regarding your specific case.

• Is the use of a knee flexion machine recommended?

  This depends on the type of surgery. Our doctors most commonly recommend it after knee replacement or mobility-improving procedures.

• Does using a knee flexion machine speed up rehabilitation?

  This depends on the type of surgery. Our doctors most commonly recommend it after knee replacement or mobility-improving procedures. In other cases, we generally do not believe it significantly improves rehabilitation.

• Where can I rent a knee flexion machine?

  Our administrators can assist you with this.

• Is it normal to have knee pain after surgery? If yes, when can I expect it to disappear?

  The primary goal of surgery is, whenever possible, complete pain relief; however, unfortunately this is not achievable for every joint. Pain immediately after surgery is normal in most cases, but it should gradually decrease and usually disappears after 6–8 weeks. Your treating physician will provide more detailed information regarding your specific case.

• What am I allowed to do at home?

  This depends on the type of surgery. Unless you receive other restrictive instructions, after smaller knee surgeries 3–7 days of rest is recommended; after ACL surgeries approximately 2 weeks; and after joint replacement surgeries around 1 month of relative rest is usually necessary. During this period, it is advisable to remain mostly indoors and only perform truly essential activities. Alongside elevation, icing, and rest, continue performing the physiotherapy exercises you have learned. Using light hand weights and occasionally abdominal exercises are also permitted.

• How long do I need to stay on sick leave?

  This depends on the type of surgery and your profession. Office work may often be resumed after 1–3 weeks, while heavy physical labor may only be possible after 1–6 months. Your treating physician will provide more detailed information regarding your specific case.

• When can I start putting normal weight on my leg again?

  As a general rule, full loading is not recommended during approximately the first week after surgery and certainly not during the full period of crutch use. Initial sports activities such as cycling or swimming may begin a few weeks after stitch removal following smaller procedures. After larger surgeries, returning to heavy physical work or active sports may take more than 6 months. Your surgeon will provide more detailed information.

• Are underarm crutches suitable after surgery?

  Yes, they are suitable; however, in our experience elbow crutches are significantly more comfortable.

• Is the subsidized price of the postoperative knee brace really HUF 28,700? Of course, I would definitely like it prescribed. When can I pick it up?

  Ideally, our doctors prescribe the brace during your in-person consultation. If this did not happen, please always coordinate the pickup of the prescription with our administrators. Naturally, we can also upload the prescription into the EESZT electronic healthcare system.

• Do I understand correctly that the admission day is also the surgery day? When will I be able to go home?

  Yes. It is important to clarify with the case managers exactly which day the procedure is scheduled for during appointment coordination. Discharge is only possible for patients without fever and in good overall condition. After smaller surgeries, discharge may occur on the same day; after medium-scale procedures after 1–2 days; and after joint replacement surgeries after 2–3 days.

• Based on the information provided, what do physiotherapists teach patients during the hospital stay? For example, exercises for the 0–3 week “red phase”?

  They teach patients how to use crutches if necessary, perform “venous exercises,” and carry out additional exercises recommended until outpatient physiotherapy begins. They also explain how frequently these exercises should be performed.

Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation

• Considering the preoperative preparations, when should I meet with a physiotherapist?

  In general, it is advisable to visit our physiotherapists before surgery for preparatory exercises. Preoperative physiotherapy can significantly ease the first days and weeks of rehabilitation after surgery.

• If I attend physiotherapy privately, does it matter which physiotherapist I choose? Does everyone equally know what needs to be taught?

  In sports surgery, “teamwork” is extremely important, meaning close communication and feedback between the physiotherapist and the surgeon. Therefore, for rehabilitation purposes, we recommend using the experienced physiotherapists of PASAMED. If you live far away geographically or if regular visits seem financially burdensome, we still recommend consulting our physiotherapists occasionally (for example once every 2–3 weeks) so they can guide the overall rhythm of your rehabilitation, while you may use additional physiotherapy services in between visits.

• If you can recommend a physiotherapist, how much do they charge and where are the sessions held?

  We recommend the PASAMED physiotherapists. Their fees can be found on our website.

• Will a physiotherapist be assigned through the hospital (state-funded/OEP), or do I need to arrange private physiotherapy myself?

  Our physiotherapists are among the most experienced rehabilitation specialists for the conditions treated and operated on by PASAMED doctors, and their expertise and experience are guaranteed. Individual or small-group physiotherapy ensures appropriate quality of care. Currently, referrals from private clinics to public hospitals or outpatient facilities are not possible.

• Is it possible to rent crutches so I can learn how to use them?

  We do not provide crutch rentals, but our doctors can prescribe them for you. The current subsidized cost is approximately HUF 1,000. We always have a few crutches available in our clinic for trial use.

• Is it possible to speed up rehabilitation with more frequent physiotherapy sessions?

  This always depends on the treated condition and your current state, but in certain cases and after certain injuries, yes, more frequent physiotherapy may accelerate rehabilitation.