Effectiveness of physiotherapy after meniscectomy

To evaluate the effect of physiotherapy after partial arthroscopic meniscectomy, we performed a prospective, randomised and partially blinded study. This pilot study was performed from October 1996 to June 1997. The control group received the standard treatment, consisting of verbal and written advice and exercises. The physiotherapy group performed exercises according to a dynamic protocol under the supervision of a physiotherapist. During a 3-week period, nine treatment sessions were given of 30 min each. Twenty patients, who had undergone arthroscopic meniscectomy without any other pathology of the knee, were randomised into two groups of ten patients each. The effects of therapy were evaluated by a blinded observer. We measured the distance and height of one-leg jumps (hops), the VAS pain scale, the Tegner and Lysholm scores and the SARS/FORS score. Recovery and satisfaction with the treatment were also evaluated. The effect measurements were performed at 7 (T1), 14 (T2), 21 (T3) and 28 days (T4) following surgery. Statistical analysis was performed with the Student's t-test. The physiotherapy group showed significantly better results than the control group regarding the SAPS score, the hop test and the distance jumps. Moreover, the measurements showed clear progression in favour of the physiotherapy group. In conclusion, exercising under the supervision of a physiotherapist led to high patient satisfaction and good functional rehabilitation after partial arthroscopic meniscectomy.