Our Summary

This research paper is about the best practices for rehabilitation after knee surgery, specifically for the repair of torn or damaged meniscus. The meniscus is a piece of cartilage in your knee that cushions and stabilizes the joint. The paper is the result of a joint effort between European and American sports medicine and physical therapy groups and involved 67 experts from 14 different countries.

The experts reviewed existing research and formed a consensus on how to treat patients after meniscus surgery. They found that the available research wasn’t very strong, but they still agreed on a number of points. They recommended that rehabilitation should be tailored to the specific injury and treatment, and that it should be based on reaching certain milestones rather than just the passage of time. After certain types of surgeries, such as meniscus repair and reconstruction, they suggested both time and milestone-based recovery.

This work is intended as a guide for both surgeons and physiotherapists treating patients after meniscus surgery. It is aiming to improve the consistency and effectiveness of rehabilitation, which can affect the outcome of the surgery. The exact methods of rehabilitation, however, will still depend on the individual patient and their specific situation.

FAQs

  1. What is the main focus of this research paper on knee surgery rehabilitation?
  2. What are the main recommendations for rehabilitation after meniscus surgery according to the experts involved in this research?
  3. How does the research intend to impact surgeons and physiotherapists treating patients after meniscus surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about meniscectomy is to follow the recommended rehabilitation program closely to ensure proper healing and recovery. This may include performing specific exercises, avoiding certain activities, and attending physical therapy sessions as directed. It is important to communicate with your healthcare team about any concerns or challenges you may face during the recovery process.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended meniscectomy are those with a torn or damaged meniscus that is causing significant pain, swelling, and limited range of motion in the knee joint. These patients may have tried conservative treatments such as rest, ice, physical therapy, and medication, but have not experienced relief from their symptoms. In some cases, patients with a torn meniscus may also have locking or catching sensations in the knee, which can indicate a piece of the torn meniscus is causing the joint to get stuck.

Patients who have a meniscus tear that is not healing on its own, or whose tear is located in a part of the meniscus with poor blood supply and therefore limited healing potential, may also be recommended for meniscectomy. Additionally, patients with complex or large tears that are not amenable to repair, or those with degenerative meniscus tears due to age-related changes in the knee joint, may also be candidates for meniscectomy.

Overall, the decision to recommend meniscectomy is based on a thorough evaluation of the patient’s symptoms, imaging studies (such as MRI), physical examination findings, and response to conservative treatments. It is important for patients to have a detailed discussion with their healthcare provider about the risks and benefits of meniscectomy, as well as alternative treatment options, before making a decision about surgery.

Timeline

Before meniscectomy:

  1. Patient experiences knee pain, swelling, and limited range of motion.
  2. Patient undergoes a physical exam, imaging tests (such as MRI), and possibly a trial of conservative treatments like physical therapy or injections.
  3. Surgeon determines that meniscectomy is necessary and explains the procedure and expected outcomes to the patient.
  4. Patient schedules surgery and receives pre-operative instructions.

After meniscectomy:

  1. Patient undergoes meniscectomy surgery to remove the damaged portion of the meniscus.
  2. Patient begins post-operative rehabilitation, which may include physical therapy, pain management, and exercises to improve strength and range of motion.
  3. Patient gradually increases activity level and returns to normal daily activities.
  4. Patient follows a structured rehabilitation program to prevent complications and optimize recovery.
  5. Patient continues to work with their healthcare team to monitor progress and adjust treatment as needed.
  6. Patient eventually reaches full recovery and returns to normal activities, with some restrictions depending on the extent of the surgery and individual factors.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about meniscectomy include:

  1. What is the reason for recommending a meniscectomy over other treatment options?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with a meniscectomy?
  3. How long is the recovery time after a meniscectomy, and what can I expect during the rehabilitation process?
  4. Are there any specific exercises or physical therapy recommendations I should follow after surgery?
  5. Will I need any assistive devices or braces during the recovery period?
  6. What are the chances of the meniscus tearing again in the future, and are there any preventive measures I can take?
  7. How soon can I return to my normal activities, such as sports or physical work, after a meniscectomy?
  8. Are there any long-term implications or considerations I should be aware of after undergoing a meniscectomy?
  9. How will the meniscectomy affect my overall knee function and joint health in the future?
  10. Are there any alternative or complementary treatments that can help with my recovery and long-term knee health?

Reference

Authors: Pujol N, Giordano AO, Wong SE, Beaufils P, Monllau JC, Arhos EK, Becker R, Della Villa F, Brett Goodloe J, Irrgang JJ, Klugarova J, Klosterman EL, Królikowska A, Krych AJ, LaPrade RF, Manske R, van Melick N, Monson JK, Ostojic M, Paterno MV, Piontek T, Perelli S, Rambaud A, Robinson J, Schmitt LC, Senorski EH, Snaebjornsson T, Tagliero AJ, Benjamin Ma C, Prill R. Journal: Knee Surg Sports Traumatol Arthrosc. 2025 Aug;33(8):3002-3013. doi: 10.1002/ksa.12674. Epub 2025 May 12. PMID: 40353298