• PURPOSE
    • This study systematically reviewed the literature on the postoperative rehabilitation protocols after lateral meniscus posterior root tears (LMPRTs) repair related with anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) regarding range of motion (ROM) exercise, weight-bearing (WB) and brace use, to ascertain whether there are univocal views among authors.
  • METHODS
    • The literature was systematic searched in the PubMed (MEDLINE), Scopus, EMBASE and Cochrane Library databases. Level I-IV studies which reported data on rehabilitation protocols in patients treated surgically for combined ACLR and LMPRTs repair were included. For each study, predefined rehabilitation variables (ROM limits, WB restrictions, brace use) were extracted, and descriptive statistical analysis were conducted. The selected studies were qualitatively evaluated using the Methodological Index for Nonrandomized Studies (MINORS) score.
  • RESULTS
    • Twelve studies were included. The cohort of patients consisted of 277 participants. Among the patients, 192 were male, with a mean age at surgery of 28 ± 4 years, and a mean follow-up of 34 ± 11 months. Regarding the initiation of ROM exercise, eight studies suggested a limited ROM (0°-90°) for 4-6 weeks, one study a limited ROM (0°-90°) for 16 weeks, while two studies reported no ROM limitations. Regarding WB, seven studies suggested non-WB for at least 4-6 weeks, four studies suggested partial-WB from 2 to 12 weeks, while one study suggested immediate full-WB. Regarding the use of bracing, five studies suggested the use of bracing, one study did not recommend bracing, while in the other six, it was not specified.
  • CONCLUSIONS
    • Most included studies suggested cautious rehabilitation with a restricted ROM and limited WB postoperatively. However, the protocols were heterogeneous, without consensus. Further studies are needed to clarify which protocol offers optimal outcomes after combined LPMRT repair and ACLR.
  • LEVEL OF EVIDENCE
    • Level IV.