ARTHROSCOPIC MICROFRACTURE PROTOCOL
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Microfracture is a surgical procedure aimed at cartilage regeneration. The
arthroscopic technique involves clearing damaged tissue from the knee joint and
creating tiny holes (“microfractures”) in the bone area where the cartilage is
defective. The underlying bone marrow seeps out through the holes and becomes
part of a blood clot that forms over the area. The marrow contains stem cells,
which have the ability to form replacement cartilage between the bare-bone
surfaces of the knee. Appropriate rehabilitation of the knee after surgery is
critical to the success of the operation.
This protocol is a guideline for your rehabilitation after arthroscopic
microfracture knee surgery. You may vary in your ability to do these exercises
and to progress to full function and resume your normal daily living. Please
contact our office, 850-763-0346 if you are having any problems with your knee
or the physical therapy.
Phase One: Week 1
Goals:
* Control pain and swelling
* Maintain knee motion
* Activate the quadriceps muscles
Guideline:
1. You will be given post op pain medication prior to your surgery and you
should began taking this when you feel the sensation return after surgery. Pain
medication is on an as needed basis, meaning if you don’t need it – don’t take
2. The Northwest Florida Surgery Center will supply you will crutches before
leaving and you should continue to use both crutches until your follow up with
Dr. Talkington. You can NOT bear full weight on the leg (unless otherwise
instructed). You should also continue to use your crutches.
3. Leave the bandage on and apply ice every 15 minutes of the hour for pain and
swelling. Use a towel between the ice and skin to prevent skin injury.
Physical therapy will remove the bandage the next day and then you can change to
waterproof band-aids and shower.
4. You can gently move the knee (flexion and extension) and began ankle pumps, straight leg raises and quad sets. Caution – do NOT put a pillow under the knee, this
tends to cause stiffness. Instead place a pillow length wise under the entire
leg for elevation or roll a towel up and place it under the ankle.
Remember elevation is above the level of your heart.
5. Should you develop a fever, shakes, or chills – calf pain or swelling
contact our office at 850-763-0346.