MPFL reconstruction can be a complex surgical intervention that needs to be performed by professional surgeons specialized in reconstructive surgeries. Patients may feel apprehensive about MPFL reconstruction because it is not a commonly known surgical intervention among the general population. In today’s article, we’ll tackle the topic of MPFL reconstruction recovery, highlighting aspects such as the recovery timeline and important considerations.
What is the MPFL ( Medial Patellofemoral Ligament)?
The MPFL ( Medial Patellofemoral Ligament) is an important ligament found on the medial aspect of the knee joint. It comes from the femur and is attached to the patella. Its main role is the stabilization of the patella and preventing too much lateral movement during knee flexion and extension. The MPFL is an essential component that ensures correct alignment and functioning of patellofemoral joints in different activities like walking, running, and jumping.
What is MPFL Reconstruction?
MPFL reconstruction is a surgical intervention that is carried out in order to repair or reconstruct the damaged or ruptured medial patellofemoral ligament. This surgery is usually indicative for patients with recurrent dislocations of the patella or instability as a MPFL injury. In the surgery, the injured ligament is substituted with graft, normally from the patient’s own hamstring tendon or a donor tendon. The goal of the MPFL reconstruction lies in the return of stability to the patellofemoral joint and decreasing of further dislocations.
What to do after MPLF Reconstruction?
After MPLF reconstruction, it is very important to strictly follow the postoperative instructions given by your surgeon.
- At first, give preference to rest for the body to recover, adhering to particular directions regarding a load on and movement of. Participate in specific physical therapy that includes strengthening, improvement of range of motion, and stability of the knee.
- Control pain as directed, using medication and other measures for effective pain relief. Utilize knee braces or immobilizers as advised to provide extra stability.
- With the help of your physical therapist, you should start to reintroduce activities in a step by step way, avoiding initially high impact activities.
- Go for follow up visits to check on progress and do required treatment plan adjustments. During the recovery, patience and perseverance is the way to go, having open communication with the team of professionals for guidance and support on the way.
MPFL Reconstruction post-surgery timeline
- 0-2 Weeks: In the first stage, you will feel pain, swelling, and limitation in movements. You probably will have to use crutches and be in a knee brace to support the surgical area and keep it safe.
- 3-6 Weeks: Physical therapy will be set in by gentle range of motion exercise and strengthening of the surrounding muscles. The healthcare provider will help you slowly advance to weight-bearing.
- 7-12 Weeks: In the course of healing, the patient will proceed to advanced strengthening exercises and functional activities, which will help to restore the knee joint stability and mobility.
- 13-16 Weeks: At this point, you should expect substantial improvement in the knee function and pain reduction. You will proceed to an advanced physical therapy program aimed at increasing strength, flexibility and proprioception.
- 3-5 Months: Rehabilitation will be based on normal activities and sport-specific training. You can start slowly to perform low impact activities with the help of your physiotherapist.
- 6 + Months: Complete recovery may last for a year or longer. At this stage, you should feel the regained stability and function of your knee, although maintenance exercises may be needed to avoid recurrence.
What will my knee look and feel like after surgery?
You will have swelling, bruising and tenderness in your knee after MPFL reconstruction. At the beginning you will also feel stiffness and restricted movement. As the healing process goes on, the swelling and bruising will go away and the knee will become more stable and less painful.
How long after MPFL Reconstruction can I walk?
The duration for walking after MPFL reconstruction varies based on individual factors as well as the particular surgical technique. Most often, patients are advised to begin partial weight bearing on the operated limb using crutches within a few days to weeks after the surgery. Nevertheless, weight-bearing instructions should be adhered to as directed by your surgeon or physical therapist.
FAQ
When can I bend my knee after MPFL surgery?
Although your surgeon will give you specific directions, generally, bending your knee is slowly introduced in the first several weeks following the surgery as pain and swelling decrease.
What exercises are good for MPFL recovery?
Range of motion activities, quadriceps and hamstring strengthening, balance, and proprioception exercises are helpful in MPFL rehabilitation. You will be provided by your physiotherapist with a personalized set of exercises tailored to your own requirements.
How long will my knee hurt after MPFL reconstruction?
The level of pain differs among individuals; however, most people suffer discomfort after the surgery for several weeks to months. Pain control methods that include medications and physical therapy techniques assist in reducing unease.
How long are you non weight-bearing after MPFL surgery?
Non-weight-bearing status is determined by surgical approach and individual considerations. However, the patients generally begin with the non-weight-bearing in the first few weeks after surgery and gradually advance to the partial weight-bearing.
Do they put screws in MPFL surgery?
Fixation may involve screws or other fixation devices in some cases during MPFL reconstruction. The most proper surgical approach will be decided by your surgeon according to your particular condition.
How long will I be on crutches after MPFL reconstruction?
The duration of crutch use differs but this is usually necessary for several weeks to help and protect the knee during the beginning process of recovery. Your doctor or therapist will tell you when to stop using the crutches.
How bad is the pain after MPFL reconstruction?
The severity of pain is inconsistent, but in general the moderate to severe pain during the initial days and weeks after MPFL reconstruction is common. The pain management methods that include, medication and physiotherapy help relieve the sufferings and speed up recovery.
