Department of Physical Therapy Faculty Articles

Arthrofibrosis Associated With Total Knee Arthroplasty

Publication Title

The Journal of Arthroplasty

Publisher

Taylor and Francis

ISSN

1532-8406

Publication Date

8-1-2017

Keywords

Activities of Daily Living, Arthroplasty, Replacement, Knee, Fibrosis, Humans, Joint Diseases, Knee Joint, Patient Readmission, Physical Therapy Modalities, Postoperative Complications, Range of Motion, Articular, Risk Factors

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Arthrofibrosis is a debilitating postoperative complication of total knee arthroplasty (TKA). It is one of the leading causes of hospital readmission and a predominant reason for TKA failure. The prevalence of arthrofibrosis will increase as the annual incidence of TKA in the United States rises into the millions.

METHODS: In a narrative review of the literature, the etiology, economic burden, treatment strategies, and future research directions of arthrofibrosis after TKA are examined.

RESULTS: Characterized by excessive proliferation of scar tissue during an impaired wound healing response, arthrofibrotic stiffness causes functional deficits in activities of daily living. Postoperative, supervised physiotherapy remains the first line of defense against the development of arthrofibrosis. Also, adjuncts to traditional physiotherapy such as splinting and augmented soft tissue mobilization can be beneficial. The effectiveness of rehabilitation on functional outcomes depends on the appropriate timing, intensity, and progression of the program, accounting for the patient's ability and level of pain. Invasive treatments such as manipulation under anesthesia, debridement, and revision arthroplasty improve range of motion, but can be traumatic and costly. Future studies investigating novel treatments, early diagnosis, and potential preoperative screening for risk of arthrofibrosis will help target those patients who will need additional attention and tailored rehabilitation to improve TKA outcomes.

CONCLUSION: Arthrofibrosis is a multi-faceted complication of TKA, and is difficult to treat without an early, tailored, comprehensive rehabilitation program. Understanding the risk factors for its development and the benefits and shortcomings of various interventions are essential to best restore mobility and function.

Volume

32

Issue

8

First Page

2604

Last Page

2611

Disciplines

Medicine and Health Sciences

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