Progress in extension lag after knee surgery / 中华骨科杂志

ABSTRACT

Most literature defines knee extension lag as the failure of the knee joint to achieve the passive extension angle, and some literature defines the inability of the knee to complete the last 15° extension as knee extension lag. Extension lag is one of the common complications after knee surgery, which seriously affects the postoperative knee joint function of patients. Disuse atrophy due to prolonged postoperative bed rest, arthrogenic muscle inhibition due to pain and (or) swelling, direct injury to the knee extensor mechanism during surgery and nerve dysfunction of the quadriceps muscle can all contribute to extension lag. While rehabilitation exercises, physical therapy and medication can significantly improve the patient's symptoms, extension lag due to the knee extension device injury requires surgery if necessary to regain normal knee function. As surgical techniques continue to be refined and rehabilitation interventions advance, the prevention of extension lag and the minimization of angle of knee extension lag need to be given adequate attention by patients, physicians, and researchers. This article reviews clinical studies related to extension lag after knee surgery, focusing on etiology, treatment, prevention and prognosis, with the aim of providing a basis and guidance for the current clinical management.