Surgical Timing and Rehabilitation (STaR) for Multiple Ligament Knee Injuries: Study Protocol for a Multicenter...

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic surgery
• Sports medicine
• Rehabilitation science

Background:

• Multiple ligament knee injuries (MLKIs) lead to significant disability, pain, and high healthcare costs.
• Current evidence on optimal surgical timing and rehabilitation protocols for MLKIs is limited.
• Understanding return-to-activity timelines after MLKIs is crucial for military personnel and civilians.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the rationale and methodology of the Surgical Timing and Rehabilitation (STaR) Trial for MLKIs.
• To investigate the impact of surgical timing and rehabilitation on return to preinjury function.
• To provide evidence for optimizing surgical and rehabilitation strategies for MLKIs.

Main Methods:

• The STaR Trial is a randomized trial designed to address evidence gaps in MLKI management.
• It will compare different timings for surgery and postoperative rehabilitation.
• Outcomes will assess return to military duty, work, and sports.

Main Results:

• This protocol paper outlines the methodology for the first randomized trials on MLKI surgical and rehabilitation timing.
• The study aims to determine the optimal timing for surgery and rehabilitation to improve patient outcomes.
• Anticipated benefits include reduced long-term disability and improved complication rates.

Conclusions:

• The STaR Trial will provide critical evidence on the optimal timing of surgery and rehabilitation for multiple ligament knee injuries.
• Findings are expected to enhance recovery, reduce disability, and improve the quality of life for individuals with MLKIs.
• This research addresses a significant gap in understanding functional recovery after MLKIs.