Beneficial Effects Of Dynamic Splint After Total Knee Arthroplasty

Abstract

Total knee arthroplasty is a chirurgical intervention that has increased in the last few years. The prevention and reduction of knee flexion contracture is crucial after these operations and it can be achieved by using dynamic splinting. The objective of this study is todescribe the beneficial effects of using dynamic splinting as a complement in the physical rehabilitation program, leading to a reduction of contractures and the recovery of full knee extension after total knee arthroplasty operation. An integrative literature review was performed using the PI[C]OD method by searching the following databases: CINAHL, MedicLatina, Medline, Cochrane Database Syst Rev, CCRCT, Nursing Allied Health Collection: Comprehensive, SciELO, whose studies were published in the period 2012-2017. This search yielded five articles that met the inclusion criteria. Professionals consider the dynamic splint an important tool to use during rehabilitation programs. The main benefits obtained are a greater range of motion without pain, a high tolerance of orthopedic use, since the tension force can be controlled, and a greater acceptance and satisfaction by patients. However, data supporting the systematic approach to appropriate selection of elastic traction are scarce. Dynamic splitting is a strategy frequently used in the rehabilitation of patients with deformities and physical injuries based on anatomical and biomechanical aspects and logical principles. Patient positioning and immobilization are crucial components of a rehabilitation program that emphasizes the prevention of contractures. The use of these devices in the different phases of the rehabilitation process, varies according to the injury and adjustment needed.