Rehabilitation after arthroscopic meniscectomy: a critical review of the clinical trials

Abstract

We reviewed the literature on patient management following arthroscopic meniscal surgery. A critical appraisal of the literature produced 8 randomized controlled trials evaluating the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or various forms of physiotherapy and pain control. Different treatments and outcome measures precluded meta-analysis. The limited evidence suggests that this is a relatively pain-free procedure with rapid recovery, and that in most cases simple analgesia in the first 1-2 days following surgery and a well-planned home-based exercise program should be sufficient. It is possible that routine daily non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs post-operatively for 3-6 weeks may enhance recovery rates. One study found that physiotherapy was beneficial for regaining muscle strength and on pain assessment but this did not translate into functional improvement. Descriptive studies are required to ascertain the types and duration of treatments being offered to patients after arthroscopic meniscectomy. Further research is needed to perform well-designed studies of current treatments that take into account predisposing factors and their impact on outcome, including use of prerandomization and real-life functional outcome measures.