As the AFL Grand Final fever spreads across Melbourne, Cabrini’s orthopaedic department, led by experts like orthopaedic surgeon Dr Iswadi Damasena, stands ready to tackle the complex knee injuries that often result from high-intensity sports.

Dr Damasena, a pivotal member of Cabrini’s comprehensive orthopaedic team, specialises in soft tissue knee injuries and cartilage restorative surgery. His expertise is particularly relevant as the football season reaches its pinnacle, highlighting the importance of advanced orthopaedic care in supporting athletes at all levels. His knowledge and experience instil confidence in the quality of care provided.

“We see all comers,” Dr Damasena explains, describing his diverse patients. “More sports-driven patients keen to return to their chosen sport after having suffered an injury.” He notes that while his soft tissue ACL patients primarily come from various sporting codes – including AFL football – the techniques and treatments apply to athletes and active individuals across all sports and skill levels.

Cabrini’s state-of-the-art orthopaedic facilities are crucial in Dr Damasena’s practice. Performing approximately 50 ACL reconstruction surgeries annually, with about a dozen of these procedures taking place at Cabrini each month, Dr Damasena appreciates the hospital’s advanced medical equipment and supportive environment. “Here at Cabrini, we have access to world leading technology and the latest equipment and implants to enable me to treat the most complex injuries. Some of this requires extensive planning and preparation, which the staff at Cabrini are more than happy to do for all of these cases,” says Dr Damasena.

Dr Damasena’s approach to ACL reconstruction and knee injury treatment showcases top-tier orthopaedic care that can help athletes at all levels return to their sport safely. He outlines the recovery process, which is carefully structured into phases. “The initial phase after an ACL reconstruction is to focus on getting the pain under control, reducing swelling, bending and straightening the knee, and then walking normally,” he explains. Patients typically progress to a full return to play by 9-12 months post-surgery.

Importantly, as players and fans alike focus on the physical demands of the AFL Grand Final, Dr Damasena stresses the significance of psychological readiness in returning to sport. This holistic approach to patient care, which acknowledges the importance of mental preparedness, is a trademark of Cabrini’s orthopaedic services.

Cabrini’s orthopaedic department, under the guidance of specialists like Dr Damasena, adopts a multidisciplinary approach. This involves close collaboration with physiotherapists, preoperative physicians, and skilled nursing staff, ensuring comprehensive care for all patients, from AFL stars to amateur enthusiasts. This comprehensive approach reassures patients about their recovery journey.

Cabrini’s orthopaedic services excel in sports medicine and injury treatment. Dr Damasena’s expertise in ACL reconstruction showcases Cabrini’s advanced care, providing personalised, evidence-based care to help all patients achieve their recovery goals, regardless of athletic level.

Learn more about Cabrini orthopaedic services