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J Knee Surg 2021; 34(01): 020-029
DOI: 10.1055/s-0040-1718605
Special Focus Section

Postoperative Management for Articular Cartilage Surgery in the Knee

Cory R. Crecelius
1   Department of Orthopaedic Surgery Physical Therapy, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri
2   University of Missouri Joint Preservation Center, Columbia, Missouri
,
Karra J. Van Landuyt
1   Department of Orthopaedic Surgery Physical Therapy, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri
,
Robert Schaal
1   Department of Orthopaedic Surgery Physical Therapy, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri
› Author Affiliations Funding None.
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Abstract

The postoperative rehabilitation team plays a crucial role in optimizing outcomes after articular cartilage surgery. A comprehensive approach to postoperative physical therapy that considers the type of surgery, location in the knee, concurrent procedures, and patient-specific factors is imperative. While postoperative rehabilitation protocols should be specific to the patient and type of surgery performed and include phased rehabilitation goals and activities, the key principles for postoperative rehabilitation apply across the spectrum of articular cartilage surgeries and patients. These key principles consist of preoperative assessments that include physical, mental, and behavioral components critical to recovery; education and counseling with respect to expectations and compliance; and careful monitoring and adjustments throughout the rehabilitation period based on consistent communication among rehabilitation, surgical, and imaging teams to ensure strict patient compliance with restrictions, activities, and timelines to optimize functional outcomes after surgery.

Keywords

postoperative rehabilitation - articular cartilage surgery - lesions - functional outcomes - physical therapy


Publication History

Received: 05 June 2020

Accepted: 25 August 2020

Article published online:
27 October 2020

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