Postoperative Rehabilitation Program Research Articles

Virtual Postoperative Rehabilitation after Facial Reanimation Surgery

To develop a standardized post-operative virtual rehabilitation program available to Atlantic Canadians following dual nerve transfer surgery/facial reanimation surgery. To report patient satisfaction outcomes associated with virtual rehabilitation following dual nerve transfer surgery.

New dynamic suture material for tendon transfer surgeries in the upper extremity - a biomechanical comparative analysis.

Early mobilization after tendon surgery is crucial to avoid commonly observed postoperative soft tissue adhesions. Recently, a new suture was introduced (DYNACORD; DC) with a salt-infused silicone core designed to minimize laxity and preserve consistent tissue approximation in order to avoid gap formation and allow early mobilization. To compare the biomechanical competence of DC against a conventional high strength suture (FiberWire; FW) in a human cadaveric tendon transfer model with an early rehabilitation protocol. Sixteen tendon transfers (flexor digitorum superficialis (FDS) IV to flexor pollicis longus (FPL)) were performed in 8 pairs human cadaveric forearms using either DC or FW. Markings were set 0.8cm proximally and 0.7cm distally to the level of the interweaving zone of the transfer. All specimens underwent repetitive thumb flexion against resistance in 9 intermittent series of 300 cycles each, simulating an aggressive postoperative rehabilitation protocol. After each series, the distance of the proximal marker to the interweaving zone (proximal), the length of the interweaving zone (intermediate) and the distance of the distal marker to the interweaving zone (distal) were measured. Pooled data over all nine series, normalized to the immediate postoperative status, demonstrated no significant differences between FW and DC (p ≥ 0.355) for the proximal and distal markers. However, at the intermediate zone, DC was associated with significant length shortening (p < 0.001)compared to FW without significant length changes (p = 0.351). Load to catastrophic failure demonstrated significant higher forces in FW (p = 0.011). Nevertheless, due to failure mainly proximal or distal of the transfer zone, these loads are not informative. From a biomechanical perspective, DC preserved tissue approximation and might be considered as a valid alternative to conventional high-strength sutures in tendon transfer surgery. DC might allow for a shorter interweaving zone and a more aggressive early postoperative rehabilitation program, possibly avoiding commonly observed postoperative soft tissue adhesions and stiffness.

Outcomes of Blood Flow Restriction Training After ACL Reconstruction in NCAA Division I Athletes.

Blood flow restriction training (BFRT) is a safe and potentially effective adjunctive therapeutic modality for postoperative rehabilitation related to various knee pathologies. However, there is a paucity of literature surrounding BFRT in high-performance athletes after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). To (1) compare the overall time to return to sports (RTS) in a cohort of National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I athletes who underwent a standardized rehabilitation program either with or without BFRT after ACLR and (2) identify a postoperative time interval for which BFRT has the maximum therapeutic benefit. Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. A total of 55 student-athletes who underwent ACLR between 2000 and 2023 while participating in NCAA Division I sports at a single institution were included in this study. Athletes were allocated to 1 of 2 groups based on whether they participated in a standardized postoperative rehabilitation program augmented with BFRT (BFRT group; n = 22) or completed the standardized protocol alone (non-BFRT group [control]; n = 33). Our primary outcome measure was time to RTS. The secondary outcome measure was handheld dynamometry quadriceps strength testing at various postoperative time points, converted to a limb symmetry index (LSI). Quadriceps strength was not tested between the BFRT and non-BFRT groups because of the limited amount of data on the control group. The mean age at the date of surgery was 18.59 ± 1.10 years for the BFRT group and 19.45 ± 1.30 years for the non-BFRT group (P = .011), and the mean RTS time was 409 ± 134 days from surgery for the BFRT group and 332 ± 100 days for the non-BFRT cohort (P = .047). For the BFRT group, the mean quadriceps strength LSI increased by 0.67% (95% CI, 0.53%-0.81%) for every week of rehabilitation, and there was a significantly positive rate of change in quadriceps strength in weeks 13-16 compared with weeks 9-12 (ΔLSI, 8.22%; P < .001). In elite NCAA Division I athletes, a statistically significant delay was observed in RTS with BFRT compared with standardized physical therapy alone after undergoing ACLR. There also appeared to be an early window during the rehabilitation period where BFRT had a beneficial impact on quadriceps strength.

To what extent can mastication functionality be restored following mandibular reconstruction surgery? A computer modeling approach

Statement of ProblemAdvanced cases of head and neck cancer involving the mandible often require surgical removal of diseased sections and subsequent replacement with donor bone. During the procedure, the surgeon must make decisions regarding which bones or tissues to resect. This requires balancing tradeoffs related to issues such as surgical access and post-operative function; however, the latter is often difficult to predict, especially given that long-term functionality also depends on the impact of post-operative rehabilitation programs. PurposeTo assist in surgical decision-making, we present an approach for estimating the effects of reconstruction on key aspects of post-operative mandible function. Material and MethodsWe develop dynamic biomechanical models of the reconstructed mandible considering different defect types and validate them using literature data. We use these models to estimate the degree of functionality that might be achieved following post-operative rehabilitation. ResultsWe find significant potential for restoring mandibular functionality, even in cases involving large defects. This entails an average trajectory error below 2 mm, bite force comparable to a healthy individual, improved condyle mobility, and a muscle activation change capped at a maximum of 20%. ConclusionThese results suggest significant potential for adaptability in the masticatory system and improved post-operative rehabilitation, leading to greater restoration of jaw function.

Integrating Emotion Perception in Rehabilitation Programs for Cochlear Implant Users: A Call for a More Comprehensive Approach.

Postoperative rehabilitation programs for cochlear implant (CI) recipients primarily emphasize enhancing speech perception. However, effective communication in everyday social interactions necessitates consideration of diverse verbal social cues to facilitate language comprehension. Failure to discern emotional expressions may lead to maladjusted social behavior, underscoring the importance of integrating social cues perception into rehabilitation initiatives to enhance CI users' well-being. After conventional rehabilitation, CI users demonstrate varying levels of emotion perception abilities. This disparity notably impacts young CI users, whose emotion perception deficit can extend to social functioning, encompassing coping strategies and social competence, even when relying on nonauditory cues such as facial expressions. Knowing that emotion perception abilities generally decrease with age, acknowledging emotion perception impairments in aging CI users is crucial, especially since a direct correlation between quality-of-life scores and vocal emotion recognition abilities has been observed in adult CI users. After briefly reviewing the scope of CI rehabilitation programs and summarizing the mounting evidence on CI users' emotion perception deficits and their impact, we will present our recommendations for embedding emotional training as part of enriched and standardized evaluation/rehabilitation programs that can improve CI users' social integration and quality of life. Evaluating all aspects, including emotion perception, in CI rehabilitation programs is crucial because it ensures a comprehensive approach that enhances speech comprehension and the emotional dimension of communication, potentially improving CI users' social interaction and overall well-being. The development of emotion perception training holds promises for CI users and individuals grappling with various forms of hearing loss and sensory deficits. Ultimately, adopting such a comprehensive approach has the potential to significantly elevate the overall quality of life for a broad spectrum of patients.

Development and Validation of Two-Step Prediction Models for Postoperative Bedridden Status in Geriatric Intertrochanteric Hip Fractures.

Patients with intertrochanteric hip fractures are at an elevated risk of becoming bedridden compared with those with intraarticular hip fractures. Accurate risk assessments can help clinicians select postoperative rehabilitation strategies to mitigate the risk of bedridden status. This study aimed to develop a two-step prediction model to predict bedridden status at 3 months postoperatively: one model (first step) for prediction at the time of admission to help dictate postoperative rehabilitation plans; and another (second step) for prediction at the time before discharge to determine appropriate discharge destinations and home rehabilitation programs. Three-hundred and eighty-four patients were retrospectively reviewed and divided into a development group (n = 291) and external validation group (n = 93). We developed a two-step prediction model to predict the three-month bedridden status of patients with intertrochanteric fractures from the development group. The first (preoperative) model incorporated four simple predictors: age, dementia, American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status classification (ASA), and pre-fracture ambulatory status. The second (predischarge) model used an additional predictor, ambulation status before discharge. Model performances were evaluated using the external validation group. The preoperative model performances were area under ROC curve (AUC) = 0.72 (95%CI 0.61-0.83) and calibration slope = 1.22 (0.40-2.23). The predischarge model performances were AUC = 0.83 (0.74-0.92) and calibration slope = 0.89 (0.51-1.35). A decision curve analysis (DCA) showed a positive net benefit across a threshold probability between 10% and 35%, with a higher positive net benefit for the predischarge model. Our prediction models demonstrated good discrimination, calibration, and net benefit gains. Using readily available predictors for prognostic prediction can assist clinicians in planning individualized postoperative rehabilitation programs, home-based rehabilitation programs, and determining appropriate discharge destinations, especially in environments with limited resources.

Вплив періопераційної внутрішньовенної інфузії лідокаїну на якість післяопераційного відновлення після різних видів оперативних втручань у дітей

Introduction. Early postoperative recovery in pediatric practice is an important problem for patients and the health care system as a whole. Aim: to investigate the quality of postoperative recovery of children after various types of surgical interventions. Materials and methods. The study involved 150 children who underwent trauma (group I), abdominal (group II) and urological (group III) surgical interventions. Each of these groups was divided into two subgroups: Іb (n=17), ІІb (n=19) and ІІІb (n=24) subgroups - included children who received intravenous lidocaine in the perioperative period, control Ia (n=23), IIa (n=29) and IIIa (n=38) subgroups - included children to whom lidocaine was not prescribed. The PaedQoR-15 questionnaire was used to assess the quality of postoperative recovery. Results. The use of perioperative intravenous lidocaine infusion is associated with an increase, compared to the control group, in the PaedQoR-15 score by 10.6% at 24 hours after trauma surgical interventions, by 21.3% and by 17% after abdominal and urological surgical interventions due to a decrease in the frequency of postoperative nausea after abdominal surgery, skin itching after all analyzed types of surgical treatment, a reduction 26.7% reduction in the time until the first gas release and by 19.3% reduction in the time until the appearance of bowel movements/defecation after abdominal surgery. It was observed that the stay of patients in the intensive care unit (ICU) was reduced by 120 minutes after trauma surgery and by 1.8 times after abdominal surgery. Conclusions. Perioperative lidocaine infusion may be useful in rapid postoperative rehabilitation programs. The research was carried out in accordance with the principles of the Declaration of Helsinki. The study protocol was approved by the Local Ethics Committee of all participating institutions. The informed consent of parents and children was obtained for conducting the studies. No conflict of interests was declared by the authors.

Analysis of cognitive status during rehabilitation after hip arthroplasty associated with pre-existing knee arthroplasty on the same leg: Case Presentation

Abstract: Introduction: Hip arthroplasty conducted through either cemented or cementless pros-theses must alleviate pain and restore joint mobility and muscle strength. The main goal is to restore mobility, stability and to maintain ADL (Activities of Daily Living) within normal parameters. Current surgical techniques allow for state-of-the-art surgeries to be performed. Yet, the postoper-ative course is strongly influenced by both pre-and postoperative psychological factors, as well as by associated diseases. Materials and Methods: We present the case of a 79-year-old female patient from Iasi, a retired yet still physically active gym teacher who was admitted an emergency to the Orthopedics Clinic of the ”Sf. Spiridon” Emergency Hospital with a displaced left femoral neck fracture resulting from same-level fall. The patient had for 6 years a Scorpio-Stryker cemented knee prosthesis on the same leg. Through surgical intervention, a cementless bipolar Lépine prosthesis was inserted into the left hip. Then, the patient presented to the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation of the Iasi Clinical Railroad Hospital to receive an adequate post-operative rehabilitation program. Results: The psychosocial factors have been analyzed with the help of various recent and spe-cialized psychological scales. The obtained results confirm the fact that these factors significantly influence the rehabilitation of prosthesis-wearing patients. Conclusion: Our study emphasizes the psychological impact on standing and walking rehabilita-tion in a patient with two prostheses on the same motor axis.

Comparative analysis of post-operative rehabilitation approaches for medial patellar luxation in small-breed dogs

Background and Aim: Electrical stimulation (ES) and light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation (LASER) therapy are frequently used in post-operative rehabilitation; however, there is currently insufficient research comparing their effectiveness. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of post-operative rehabilitation following medial patellar luxation (MPL) surgical correction by comparing ES and LASER therapy when combined with exercise. This was compared with a control group that consisted solely of post-operative home exercise implemented by the owner. Materials and Methods: We conducted a prospective clinical trial on dogs that had undergone surgical treatment for MPL. The dogs were categorized into the following three groups: The control group, which did not participate in any post-operative rehabilitation program; the ES group, which received post-operative rehabilitation involving ES therapy; and the LASER group, which underwent post-operative rehabilitation featuring LASER therapy. Results: There were no significant differences among the groups regarding the evaluation parameters, including lameness score, pain score, thigh muscle circumference, and range of motion. Although there may have been a difference in pain score in some groups, it could be attributed to the pre-operative condition of patients. These results aligned with the owner questionnaires’ canine brief pain inventory assessments, showing no significant differences between treatment groups. Conclusion: Post-operative rehabilitation for MPL correction may enhance limb usage, joint function, muscle mass, and pain relief. However, the duration and level of post-operative pain may influence the necessity for rehabilitation. In addition, ES and LASER therapy offer similar pain-relieving effects after MPL surgery; therefore, the choice between these methods depends on the availability of equipment and veterinarian preferences. Keywords: electrical stimulation, light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation therapy, medial patellar luxation, post-operative management, rehabilitation.

Knee Joint Preservation in Tactical Athletes: A Comprehensive Approach Based upon Lesion Location and Restoration of the Osteochondral Unit.

The unique physical demands of tactical athletes put immense stress on the knee joint, making these individuals susceptible to injury. In order to ensure operational readiness, management options must restore and preserve the native architecture and minimize downtime, while optimizing functionality. Osteochondral lesions (OCL) of the knee have long been acknowledged as significant sources of knee pain and functional deficits. The management of OCL is predicated on certain injury characteristics, including lesion location and the extent of subchondral disease. Techniques such as marrow stimulation, allograft and autologous chondrocyte implantation are examined in detail, with a focus on their application and suitability in tactical athlete populations. Moreover, the restoration of the osteochondral unit (OCU) is highlighted as a central aspect of knee joint preservation. The discussion encompasses the biomechanical considerations and outcomes associated with various cartilage restoration techniques. Factors influencing procedure selection, including lesion size, location, and patient-specific variables, are thoroughly examined. Additionally, the review underscores the critical role of post-operative rehabilitation and conditioning programs in optimizing outcomes. Strengthening the surrounding musculature, enhancing joint stability, and refining movement patterns are paramount in facilitating the successful integration of preservation procedures. This narrative review aims to provide a comprehensive resource for surgeons, engineers, and sports medicine practitioners engaged in the care of tactical athletes and the field of cartilage restoration. The integration of advanced preservation techniques and tailored rehabilitation protocols offers a promising avenue for sustaining knee joint health and function in this demanding population.

Anatomic shoulder arthroplasty: the correlation between patient resilience, mental health, and outcome

Recovery from anatomic shoulder arthroplasty may be enhanced in patients with good mental health and the resilience to participate in the prescribed postoperative rehabilitation program. To test this concept, we utilized validated and reliable scales in determining whether resilience and mental health are associated with the outcome of anatomic arthroplasty. 399 patients (195 ream and run (RnR) and 204 anatomic total shoulder (aTSA)) were surveyed at a mean follow-up of 6.3 ± 3.3 years. Preoperative variables included age, sex, body mass index (BMI), history of prior shoulder surgery, diabetes, visual analog scale for pain (VAS), Simple Shoulder Test (SST) scores, and Veteran's RAND-12 Mental Component Score (VR-12 MCS). Outcomes collected included the SST, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Score (ASES), revision rate, and patient satisfaction. Resilience was documented using the Connor Davidson Resilience Scale-10 (CD RISC-10) at latest follow-up. Univariable and multivariable regression analyses were used to identify factors significantly associated with follow-up postoperative SST, ASES and satisfaction. In the univariable analysis, CD RISC-10 was positively correlated with postoperative SST, ASES and satisfaction after both RnR and aTSA. Mean CD RISC-10 scores were higher in the RnR cohort (34.3 ± 4.8 vs. 32.5 ± 6.2 for aTSA, p<0.001). Male sex and lower preoperative VAS were correlated with higher ASES after RnR; VR-12 MCS was positively correlated with all outcomes except SST after RnR. In the multivariable linear regression analysis, CD RISC-10 was independently associated with postoperative SST, ASES and satisfaction scores in aTSA patients. In the RnR cohort, CD RISC-10 was only correlated with satisfaction. VR-12 MCS was correlated with ASES and satisfaction after RnR. In this study of anatomic arthroplasties, increased resilience and better mental health were correlated with better outcomes. RnR patients had higher resilience than aTSA patients. Greater resilience was associated with better outcomes after anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty. Better mental health was associated with superior outcomes after the ream and run procedure.

Rehabilitation exercise program after surgical treatment of patellar tendon rupture: A case report

ObjectiveThis case report describes in detail a rehabilitation and exercise program following surgical treatment of patellar tendon rupture and offers postoperative therapeutic goals and recommendations, with the aim of expediting the resumption of activities of daily living and sports participation following the surgical procedure. In addition, this report analyzes the cause of the patellar tendon rupture in this case. DesignCase report. ParticipantsThe patient, a 25-year-old male recreational athlete (height: 184 cm; weight: 80 kg; right-hand dominant), experienced a complete rupture of the patellar tendon upon landing on the left lower extremity during an unopposed dribble turn. Rehabilitation exercise programA well-structured rehabilitation program was implemented. Passive knee flexion range of motion (ROM) exceeded 90° at week 5 and was fully recovered at week 16. A second surgery was performed at week 19 to remove the decompression wires, and the patient progressively resumed basic physical and specialized training at 7 months post-surgery. Main outcome measuresMorphometric and functional tests were performed to measure the effectiveness of rehabilitation throughout the postoperative process. ConclusionsEarly surgical repair and an immediate postoperative rehabilitation program have a positive impact on knee ROM, function, and muscle strength. The causes of the patellar tendon rupture in this patient included long-standing uncontrolled patellar tendinopathy, impaired mobility of the ankle and hip joints, poor landing technique, and muscle strength imbalances.

Post-operative rehabilitation after surgical shoulder stabilization with Latarjet procedure: a study protocol for systematic scoping review

Background: Anterior shoulder instability (ASI) is highly prevalent in the general population causing a significant functional decline and increased healthcare burden. Among the surgical stabilization options, the Latarjet procedure is commonly preferred to treat traumatic ASI in young active individuals. Despite the advances in surgical procedures, the research evidence regarding the content of post-operative rehabilitation programmes following a Latarjet procedure for ASI is inconclusive. Methods: This protocol will adhere on the preferred reporting items for systemic reviews and meta-analyses extension for scoping reviews (PRISMA-ScR) and the Joanna Briggs Institute guidelines. MEDLINE, OvidSP, Embase, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, PubMed, SPORTS Discus and Scopus databases will be searched for relevant studies. Two reviewers will independently screen the results against the eligibility criteria defined by the population concept and context of this scoping review. A PRISMA-ScR flow diagram will be used to present the number of sources of evidence identified. The two reviewers will extract the data aiming to synthesize the results in appropriate tables. The most relevant details of the post-operative rehabilitation programmes will be presented based on consensus on exercise reporting template checklist. Conclusions: This scoping review can provide critical information regarding the content of the post-operative rehabilitation programmes after shoulder stabilization with a Latarjet procedure in patients with ASI.

Evaluating a Tailored 12-Week Post-Operative Rehabilitation Program for Younger Patients Following Total Knee Arthroplasty: Addressing a Growing Need

Background: The prevalence of total knee arthroplasties (TKA) is rising, especially among younger patients due to sports-related injuries and early osteoarthritis onset. Post-operative outcomes in younger patients show promise, but current rehabilitation approaches lack specificity for this group. This study aims to evaluate a post-operative rehabilitation program tailored for younger TKA recipients.; Methods: Patients from a single arthroplasty center who underwent TKA were age and sex-matched into two groups: Group A with an advanced 12-week rehabilitation program and Group B with a standard rehabilitation program. Eligibility required participants to be under 60 and ready for a specific TKA type, with assessments at baseline and 12 weeks post-operative using the KSS, KOOS, and the SF-36 scales. Results: At the 12-week follow-up, Group A, having received the advanced rehabilitation protocol, showed significantly higher KOOS (A: 85.1 ± 8.7 vs. B: 83.7 ± 11.1; p=0.042) and KSS (A: 82.9 ± 8.4 vs. B: 78.7 ± 9.2; p=0.020) scores than Group B. Both groups demonstrated marked improvements with an attendance rate of 88% (A) compared to 82% (B), although we found no significant difference in overall mean tolerability scores between the groups. Conclusions: Patients undergoing advanced rehabilitation after total knee arthroplasty showed significant improvements compared to standard protocols. Despite minor variations influenced by social determinants, the advanced protocol was more effective in post-operative recovery.

Feasibility of preoperative and postoperative physical rehabilitation for cardiac surgery patients – a longitudinal cohort study

BackgroundThis study aimed to determine the feasibility of a preoperative and postoperative (in- and outpatient) physical rehabilitation program, the Heart-ROCQ-pilot program.MethodsThis cohort study included patients undergoing cardiac surgery (including coronary artery bypass graft surgery, valve surgery, aortic surgery, or combinations of these surgeries) and participated in the Heart-ROCQ-pilot program. Feasibility involved compliance and characteristics of bicycle and strength training sessions in the three rehabilitation phases.ResultsOf the eligible patients, 56% (n = 74) participated in the program (41% of exclusions were due to various health reasons). On average across the rehabilitation phases, the compliance rates of bicycle and strength training were 88% and 83%, respectively. Workload to heart rate (W/HR) ratio and total absolute volume load for bicycle and strength training, respectively, improved in each rehabilitation phase (P < 0.05). The W/HR-ratio was higher during the last postoperative session compared to the first preoperative session (0.48 to 0.63 W/beat, P < 0.001) and similar to the last preoperative session (0.65 to 0.64 W/beat, P < 0.497). During less than 1% of the bicycle sessions, patients reported discomfort scores of 5 to 6 (scale 0–10, with higher scores indicating a higher level).ConclusionsThe Heart-ROCQ-pilot program was feasible for patients awaiting cardiac surgery. Patients were very compliant and were able to safely increase the training load before surgery and regained this improvement within eight weeks after surgery.

The effects of modified hardinge approach on hip muscle strength in patients with primary hip arthroplasty: a patient evaluation with isokinetic strength test and gait analyses.

Numerous factors affect abductor strength after Total hip arthroplasty (THA), including surgical technique, prosthesis type, postoperative rehabilitation program, and preoperative patient condition. We prospectively investigated the effects of the modified Hardinge approach on hip muscle strength, which was evaluated using the isokinetic test, functional results, and gait function of patients who underwent primary THA. The hip muscles strength were measured using an isokinetic dynamometer. The primary outcomes of the present study were measurement of isokinetic strength of hip abductor muscle strengths using an isokinetic evaluator and gait analyses preoperatively and at 6months postoperatively in 27 patients. Isokinetic muscle strength test, abductor and other hip circumference groups achieved the preoperative muscle strength at 3months postoperatively, and the postoperative sixth month values showed a statistically significant improvement compared with the preoperative and third month values. In gait analyze, our temporospatial data showed a slight regression at postoperative 3months but reached the same values at 6months postoperatively. Kinematic data showed a significant regression, but the data were not compared with those in the preoperative period. Adequate muscle strength and physiological gait pattern, similar to the preoperative status, can be achieved at 6months postoperatively. Level III.

Effects of exercise prehabilitation before anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction on functional outcomes during pre- and postoperative rehabilitation — protocol for a single-blinded randomised controlled trial

BackgroundAlthough a benefit of preoperative training prior to anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction is likely, there is no consensus on the optimal content (criteria-based programme), supervision (one-on-one guidance or self-administered training) and general setting of preoperative training after ACL injuries. The purpose of this trial is to investigate the efficacy of an individually adaptive, guided, structured and criteria-based preoperative rehabilitation programme in comparison to a non-guided and self-administered home training programme.MethodsThe planned single-blinded randomised controlled trial study was approved by the ethics committee of the German Sport University on June 14, 2022 (ethics application no. 093/2022) and prospectively registered (DRKS-ID: DRKS00030312; date of registration: 26.09.2022). N = 114 participants between 16 and 60 years of age with a unilateral ACL rupture and scheduled ACL reconstruction with a hamstring or quadriceps tendon autograft will be randomly (block-randomisation, 1:1 allocation) and blinded assigned to one of two groups: intervention group (structured, criteria-based, guided prehabilitation training) and comparator group (non-guided, self-administered home training). After surgical reconstruction, patients of both groups participate in the same standard, functional measurement-guided, postoperative rehabilitation programme. Stepwise increasing the functional requirements of the assessments, all participants participate in testing at the day of anamnesis (t1), 1–7 days before surgical reconstruction (t2), day of surgical reconstruction (t3) and 30 (t4), 60 (t5), 90 (t6) and 180 (t7) days post-reconstruction.The primary outcome is the overall self-reported knee condition, assessed by the sum score of all sub-scales of the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS). Secondary outcomes include functional outcomes (range of motion, knee flexors and extensors and plantar flexors strength/torque, functional postural control, jumping ability), workability and return to sport (RTS) (psychological readiness, RTS success).DiscussionThe planned study targets to fill a gap in the evidence regarding effective designs of prehabilitation training before surgical ACL reconstruction. Potential difficulties that could affect the conduct of the study are lack of treatment adherence of the patients and high dropout.Trial registrationGerman Register of Clinical Trials DRKS-ID: DRKS00030312. Registered on 26 September 2022.

The effectiveness of postoperative exercise based on gait analysis compared with conventional exercise in patients with lumbar spinal stenosis: A randomized clinical trial.

Despite being used as a program of postoperative rehabilitation, few randomized controlled trials have compared the effectiveness of postoperative exercise based on gait analysis in patients with lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS). To investigate the effectiveness of postoperative exercise based on gait analysis in patients with LSS and to compare it with the effectiveness of conventional exercise. This was a double-blind, randomized clinical trial. Sixty-eight participants with LSS were randomly assigned to one of two groups. After receiving a standardized surgical procedure, the observation group received exercises based on 3-D gait analysis, and the control group received empirical physiotherapy containing 4 basic interventions. Both groups took a one-hour session twice daily for 2 weeks. The Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) scale and the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) were measured before and 2 weeks and 6 months after intervention. The gait indicators were measured before and 6 months after intervention. At baseline, there were no significant differences in the ODI, VAS or absolute symmetry index (ASI) of the gait variables between the observation group and the control group. However, at 6 months, pain intensity, walking, standing, social life and summary scores of ODI and VAS of the leg demonstrated significant differences (p< 0.05, respectively) between groups, and the observation group had greater reductions in ASI of stride length, hip flexion, knee flexion and ankle dorsiflexion compared with the control group (p< 0.05, respectively). The postoperative rehabilitation scheme based on gait analysis resulted in significant short- to medium-term improvements in pain intensity, walking, standing, social life and the summary score of ODI, VAS of leg and symmetry of stride length, hip flexion, knee flexion and ankle dorsiflexion compared with empirical exercise in patients with LSS.

Cut-off values of preoperative knee extensor strength and hip abductor strength for predicting good walking ability after total knee arthroplasty.

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) reduces pain and improves physical function; however, not all patients have successful outcomes after surgery. To identify these patients would be critical information for improving rehabilitation programs. The purpose of this study was to clarify the cut-off values of lower extremity muscle strength for predicting postoperative good walking ability. Timed Up and Go test of 105 patients was measured at 6months postoperatively, and participants were divided into good (< 9.1s) and poor (≥ 9.1s) walking ability. Both sides of knee extensor strength (KES) and hip abductor strength (HAS) were measured using hand-held dynamometer preoperatively. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used to identify cut-off values for classifying the participants into the two groups. Of the 105 patients, 54 were allocated in the poor walking ability group, whereas 51 were allocated in the good walking ability group. KES and HAS were significantly greater in the good walking ability group than in the poor walking ability group. ROC curve analysis revealed that the cut-off value for KES was 0.79 Nm/kg (area under the curve (AUC) 0.68; sensitivity 64.7%; specificity 68.5%) on the involved side and 0.86 Nm/kg (AUC 0.73; sensitivity 84.6%; specificity 55.6%) on the uninvolved side, and for HAS was 0.57 Nm/kg (AUC 0.71; sensitivity 60.8%; specificity 71.7%) on the involved side and 0.61 Nm/kg (AUC 0.76; sensitivity 66.7%; specificity 77.4%) on the uninvolved side. The cut-off values of preoperative KES and HAS for predicting good walking ability after TKA are 0.79 Nm/kg on the involved side and 0.86 Nm/kg on the uninvolved side, and 0.57 Nm/kg on the involved side and 0.61 Nm/kg on the uninvolved side, respectively. We should provide enhanced pre- and post-operative rehabilitation programs for patients with muscle strength lower than these values.

On the development of a systemic (biopsychosocial) prediction model for cardiovascular disease. Part II

The authors have attempted to design and verify a model of comprehensive (medical, social and psychological) prognosis in cardiovascular disease, which would cover aspects of patients’ illness, treatment and life functioning. A multidisciplinary set of methods was used to realise the aim. The study included 437 patients suffering from coronary heart disease or chronic heart failure, both of ischaemic and non-ischaemic etiology, who were referred for cardiovascular surgery, and who had undergone surgical intervention.Part II of the article presents the results of the 3 final stages of the study. These are the following: 5) The studied indicators were divided into the following subgroups: “Current state factors” (reflecting the patients’ current psychological state, characterising their cognitive and emotional-affective spheres) and “Baseline factors” (reflecting relatively stable characteristics of the disease, socio-behavioural and personal features of the patients). 6) A new factor analysis was performed, resulting in 11 secondary factors: 5 in the group of “Current state factors” (“Psychological well-being”, “Quality of life in the face of cardiac disease”, “Reduced non-verbal cognitive functions due to anxiety”, “Positive mood and cognitive state”, “State of mnestic function”) and 6 in the group of “Baseline factors” (“Non-constructive behaviour in the face of disease”, “Occupational motives and severity of cardiovascular disease”, “Psychosocial risk factors for coronary heart disease”, “Patient motivation, tension and severity of chronic heart failure”, “Social support and resilience”, “Adherent behaviour and rational thinking”). 7) We used mathematical modelling and a neural network to determine the prognostic value of the above factors and to construct a systematic prediction model that will be capable of predicting the value of all “Current state factors” at any given time (days after surgery) with an accuracy of up to 80%. In the future, we plan to design a model for the “Baseline factors”.The identification of prognostically relevant patients’ characteristics at the stage of preparation for cardiac surgery can help to optimise psychological help for the patient during this time and individualise the postoperative rehabilitation programme.