Meniscus Allograft Replacement Surgery: A minimally invasive method to restore previously removed torn knee cartilage with cadaver tissue
Edited By: John R. Green III, M.D.
Last updated Thursday, January 05, 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
after eight weeks 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 surgery 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 about 6 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 a week after
allograft meniscus replacement. 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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