Isolated meniscal allograft transplantation with suture-based fixation of a bone bridge: 15 cases with a 2-year minimum follow-up

Table 2 Post-operative rehabilitation protocol for isolated meniscal allograft transplantation

Post-operative rehabilitation protocol
Begin physical therapy 3-5 days after surgery
Touch down weight bearing to 25% partial weight bearing is allowed for 6 weeks. Full weight bearing at 6 weeks. Upon initiation of full weight bearing an unloader brace is used to off-load the surgical compartment
While ambulating, the knee is locked in extension with a brace for 6 weeks
Range of motion from 0-45 degrees until 2 weeks post-operatively
Range of motion from 0-60 degrees from post-operative weeks 2-4
Range of motion from 0-90 degrees from post-operative weeks 4-6
Advance to range of motion as tolerated after post-operative week 6, avoiding forced flexion for 3-4 months
Return to work for a sedentary job can be as early as one week post-operatively. For strenuous work, it will take approximately 3-4 months
Low-impact exercises are allowed at 8 weeks with running after 6 months. Light to moderate sport is allowed at 6 months to 9 months with strenuous sport not recommended. Each case is unique and modifying return to work and sport to a certain degree is necessary for every patient