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J Knee Surg 2012; 25(03): 207-212
DOI: 10.1055/s-0032-1322603
Special Focus Section
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Postoperative Management of Patients with Articular Cartilage Repair

Jennifer Yasu Stone
1   Department of Rehabilitation, Missouri Orthopedic Institute, Columbia, Missouri
,
Robert Schaal
1   Department of Rehabilitation, Missouri Orthopedic Institute, Columbia, Missouri
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History

15 March 2012

20 May 2012

Publication Date:
04 August 2012 (online)

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Abstract

The efficacy of the rehabilitative process following articular cartilage repair in the knee can be the factor that determines the patient's long-term success, especially for return to sport. Articular cartilage repairs show great promise in allowing patients to return to their former level of function and, when complimented with an appropriate postoperative rehabilitation program, can be highly successful in allowing return to even very high level athletics. This article seeks to overview the most recent evidence regarding the general rehabilitation process for the common types of cartilage repair, discuss common complications which may arise, and determine an athlete's readiness to return to sport. We also address postoperative pain control, evaluation of a patient's progress through rehab, and adjustments to be made when there are comorbidities present.

Keywords

articular cartilage - rehabilitation - physical therapy - postoperative
 

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