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Clinical Trials/NCT06251765
NCT06251765
Completed
Not Applicable

Clinical Results After Judet Quadricepsplasty for Post-traumatic Knee Stiffness: a Retrospective and Prospective Observational Study

Istituto Ortopedico Rizzoli1 site in 1 country20 target enrollmentStarted: July 10, 2024Last updated:

Overview

Phase
Not Applicable
Status
Completed
Enrollment
20
Locations
1
Primary Endpoint
Range of Motion at follow-up

Overview

Brief Summary

The Post-traumatic Extension Contracture of the Knee (PECK) is a common complication following knee traumas. It is characterized by a restricted Range of Motion (ROM), pain, and discomfort in the affected knee.

Various factors can cause PECK, primarily inflammation and scar tissue formation. The underlying inflammatory state leads to the development of scar tissue, which - when combined with immobilization - results in the progressive stiffness of the knee. Additionally, prolonged immobilization leads to muscle atrophy and, consequently, reduced mobility and increased rigidity.

All these conditions contribute to a limited ROM, making it challenging to perform various daily activities.

Sometimes conservative treatments can be effective, but surgery is often necessary to restore joint functionality and alleviate pain.

Historically, various surgical approaches have been proposed to address post-traumatic knee stiffness.

Open surgery is typically reserved for cases where arthroscopic adhesion release and manipulation under anesthesia have not been successful. Over the last century, various open surgical techniques have been proposed.

In particular, arthromyolysis according to Judet was first described in the 1950s by the French orthopedic surgeon Jacques Judet. This technique involves a series of incisions and soft tissue releases, allowing the surgeon to resolve the stiffness of the quadriceps tendon caused by trauma or prolonged immobilization.

Although effective in restoring knee joint functionality, arthromyolysis according to Judet is not without risks and potential complications. These include infection, massive bleeding, nerve and muscle-tendon injuries, and residual stiffness.

The purpose of this study is to analyze our case series related to arthromyolysis according to Judet for PECK. Clinical outcomes, complications, and patient satisfaction following this type of intervention will be evaluated.

Study Design

Study Type
Observational
Observational Model
Cohort
Time Perspective
Prospective

Eligibility Criteria

Ages
18 Years to — (Adult, Older Adult)
Sex
All
Accepts Healthy Volunteers
No

Inclusion Criteria

  • Adult patients underwent surgical intervention for arthromyolysis according to Judet with modified surgical technique for knee stiffness from January 2008 to December
  • Patients with post-traumatic injuries (fractures treated surgically).
  • Patients with a minimum of 4 years of follow-up.
  • Completeness of clinical documentation.

Exclusion Criteria

  • Patients who underwent surgical intervention for arthrolysis (both arthroscopic and non-arthroscopic) or arthromyolysis according to Judet with minimally invasive technique.
  • Patients who underwent surgery to address knee stiffness due to other causes (rigid prosthesis, limb lengthening, etc.).
  • Incomplete clinical documentation.

Outcomes

Primary Outcomes

Range of Motion at follow-up

Time Frame: baseline time 0

ROM expresses in degrees the degree of range of motion that a joint can perform along its full range of motion whether active or passive through an external aid.

Secondary Outcomes

  • Intra-operative Range of Motion(baseline time 0)
  • Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score(baseline time 0)
  • Tegner Activity Scale(baseline time 0)

Investigators

Sponsor Class
Other
Responsible Party
Sponsor

Study Sites (1)

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