Perioperative programs are being used to reduce postoperative complications and allow the patient to be active safely more quickly. The program includes four phases. It starts at the time of injury. Pre-operation activities include aggresive swelling reduction, hypertension exercises, gait training, and mental preparation.
When the swelling has been resolved and the patient has full range of motion, surgery can be scheduled around work, school, and other social schedules. Every phase of rehabilitation is done in the patients home. The patient is seen at 1, 2, 4, and 8 weeks after surgery. Physical therapy is done at this time.
The second phase is after surgery. This includes hemarthrosis control and rehabilitation exercises. The third phase is concentrated rehabilitation. The fourth phase is sport-specific activities. Full knee hyperextension should be maintained.
Accelerated rehabilitation is believed to be safe and desirable for the patient to quickly return to his or her normal activities.