Our Summary

This research paper looks at how having a certain type of knee surgery, called a partial meniscectomy, impacts the performance of elite basketball players. The researchers compared the performance of players who had this surgery to those who never had a knee injury. They used performance data from the National Basketball Association (NBA) combine, where potential NBA players are tested on their athletic abilities. The study found that players who had the surgery performed just as well as those who didn’t in agility, quickness, sprinting, and jumping. Interestingly, the study also found that the longer it had been since the surgery, the better the player’s vertical jump was. This suggests that the surgery does not negatively impact a player’s performance, and may even improve some aspects over time.

FAQs

  1. What is a partial meniscectomy and how does it impact the performance of elite basketball players?
  2. What were the main findings of the study on partial meniscectomy in elite basketball players?
  3. Does the time elapsed since the surgery impact the player’s performance in any way?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about meniscectomy is to follow their post-operative rehabilitation plan carefully. This may include physical therapy exercises to strengthen the muscles around the knee and improve range of motion. It is important to follow the instructions of the physical therapist and slowly progress in activities to prevent re-injury and promote healing. Additionally, maintaining a healthy weight and staying active can help prevent future knee issues. Always consult with your doctor before returning to sports or other high-impact activities.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended meniscectomy are those who have a torn meniscus that is causing significant pain, swelling, and limited range of motion in the knee joint. Meniscectomy is often recommended when conservative treatments such as rest, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications have failed to provide relief. Additionally, patients with a large tear in the meniscus, younger patients with a higher likelihood of healing, and patients who are physically active and want to return to sports or other activities may also be good candidates for meniscectomy. Ultimately, the decision to undergo meniscectomy should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider who can assess the individual patient’s unique circumstances and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan.

Timeline

Before Meniscectomy:

  1. Patient experiences knee pain, swelling, and limited range of motion.
  2. Patient undergoes physical examination and imaging tests to diagnose the meniscus tear.
  3. Patient may undergo conservative treatments such as rest, ice, physical therapy, and corticosteroid injections.

After Meniscectomy:

  1. Patient undergoes a partial meniscectomy surgery to remove the torn part of the meniscus.
  2. Patient undergoes post-operative rehabilitation to regain strength and range of motion in the knee.
  3. Patient gradually returns to normal activities and sports, following the guidance of their healthcare provider.
  4. Research suggests that elite athletes may see improvements in certain physical abilities, such as vertical jump, over time following the surgery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the risks and potential complications of a meniscectomy surgery?
  2. How long is the recovery process after a meniscectomy surgery?
  3. Will I be able to return to physical activities and sports after the surgery?
  4. Are there any alternative treatments or therapies that could be considered instead of surgery?
  5. What type of rehabilitation program will I need to follow after the surgery?
  6. How long will it take to see improvements in my knee function after the surgery?
  7. Are there any long-term effects or implications of having a meniscectomy surgery?
  8. Will I need any additional treatments or procedures in the future after the surgery?
  9. How often will I need to follow up with you after the surgery?
  10. Can you provide me with any resources or information to help me better understand the surgery and what to expect?

Reference

Authors: Khalil LS, Mehran N, Toor A, Matar RN, Kharrazi FD. Journal: Musculoskelet Surg. 2021 Apr;105(1):105-110. doi: 10.1007/s12306-020-00636-0. Epub 2020 Jan 27. PMID: 31989533