Arthroscopic Meniscus Repair: A minimally invasive method to repair torn knee cartilage
Edited By: John R. Green III, M.D.
Last updated Thursday, January 19, 2006
RehabilitationPhysical therapy The three early postoperative rehabilitation goals are; get the knee
out fully straight, decrease swelling, and regain quadriceps muscle
control. Patients are encouraged to do straight leg raises in the brace
immediately after surgery. The brace is used to walk with the knee in
extension for six weeks. Range of motion is generally started soon
after surgery from 0-90 degrees, without any weight-bearing during
motion. The brace is unlocked at six weeks and weaned off when good
quadriceps control is demonstrated. Motion is increased as tolerated at
six weeks, but deep squats are avoided until 12 weeks. Low impact type
activities such as swimming and exercise machines are encouraged at 12
weeks, with advancement to cutting and pivoting sports generally at 16
weeks. The assistance of a physical therapist is very helpful in
achieving a rapid full recovery.Rehabilitation options Sports Medicine Clinic has experienced physical therapists, who
regularly guide patients through meniscus repair rehabilitation. Since
much of the work of rehabilitation is done at home, the surgeon,
patient and therapist are partners in a successful outcome. Since many
patients come a distance for our expertise, we have developed working
relationships with many therapy clinics in the surrounding area to make
therapy more convenient.Usual response Patients are generally satisfied with the progress made during
rehabilitation, and often feel ready to do more than allowed during
each phase. Adherence to this protocol has led to successful outcome.
If the exercises seem particularly difficult or painful, the patient
should contact the therapist or surgeon.Risks This is a safe rehabilitation program with minimal risk.Duration of rehabilitation Return to sports requires the ability to perform sports specific drills
at competition speed. Depending on the rigors of the sport, the
preoperative condition, associated injuries, and other individual
factors, return to a chosen sport generally takes four to five months.
Rehabilitation should continue until the patient’s athletic goals are
achieved.Returning to ordinary daily activities Patients are generally able to get back to activities of daily living
three to four days after arthroscopic meniscus repair. These activities
will initially be performed while wearing a brace. Help at home for the
first several days after surgery is beneficial.Long-term patient limitations After full rehabilitation and recovery, patients have no limitations.
However, if significant articular (gliding) cartilage injury or
degeneration is noted at the time of diagnostic arthroscopy, high
impact type sports are discouraged to slow the progression of arthritis.Costs Since much of the rehabilitation is done at home, rehabilitation is
cost-effective. The surgeon and therapist should be able to provide the
usual cost of the rehabilitation program.Surgery for Meniscus Tear at the University of Washington If you are interested in making an appointment to discuss this procedure, you can request an appointment using our online referrals website. To request a referral online, please click here. You can also call 206-543-1552 to make an appointment.
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