Postoperative Weight-Bearing, Range-of-Motion Protocols and Knee Biomechanics After Concomitant Posterolateral Meniscal Root Repair with ACL Reconstruction: A Systematic Review.

Background/

Objectives

Meniscal root tears, particularly those of the posterolateral root, are frequently associated with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries and significantly alter load distribution and knee stability. Surgical repair of the posterolateral meniscal root (PLMR) aims to restore normal biomechanics; however, postoperative rehabilitation strategies remain heterogeneous. The objective of this systematic review was to describe and analyze postoperative weight-bearing (WB) and range-of-motion (ROM) protocols following concomitant PLMR repair and anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR), integrating both clinical and biomechanical perspectives.

Methods

This systematic review followed PRISMA guidelines and analyzed biomechanical and clinical studies assessing postoperative WB and ROM management following PLMR repair combined with ACLR.

Results

Eleven studies were included, describing heterogeneous postoperative rehabilitation protocols for WB and ROM following posterolateral meniscal root repair with ACLR. Biomechanical data consistently showed that root section increased tibial internal rotation and contact pressure on the lateral tibial plateau, whereas repair restored near-native load sharing. Clinically, most authors recommended non-weight-bearing or toe-touch loading for 4-6 weeks and flexion limited to 0-90° during early rehabilitation. Gradual progression to full loading and motion between 8 and 12 weeks was the most consistent strategy.

Conclusions

Although the current evidence is limited and mainly based on low-level studies, available data suggest that a cautious and progressive rehabilitation protocol after PLMR repair with ACLR early controlled motion and delayed full loading may optimize repair healing while protecting graft integrity.