Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 31, 2026
04:59
Using a Knee Arthrometer to Evaluate Tissue-specific Contributions to Knee Flexion Contracture in the Rat
Published on: November 9, 2018
Changes in muscular activity after knee arthrotomy and arthroscopy
International Orthopaedics
|January 1, 1995
Summary
Knee arthrotomy surgery can impair joint proprioception, affecting muscle control. Arthroscopy, however, shows no significant impact on muscle function, suggesting it is a preferable surgical option.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Neuroscience
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Joint proprioception is crucial for motor control and joint stability.
- Surgical interventions like arthrotomy and arthroscopy are common for knee conditions.
- The impact of these procedures on proprioception requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of knee arthrotomy on joint proprioception.
- To compare the impact of arthrotomy versus arthroscopy on quadriceps and hamstring muscle activity.
- To determine if knee surgery affects neuromuscular control.
Main Methods:
- Electromyography (EMG) was used to record quadriceps and hamstring muscle activity.
- Patients were tested on a modified ergometer to assess muscle response.
- Two groups were studied: 20 patients post-arthrotomy and 20 post-arthroscopy.
Main Results:
- Arthrotomy led to delayed and shorter quadriceps muscle activation (20 ms).
- Statistically significant differences in vastus medialis and lateralis activation were observed post-arthrotomy.
- No significant differences in muscle control were found after arthroscopy.
Conclusions:
- Knee arthrotomy significantly impairs joint proprioception and neuromuscular control.
- Arthroscopy does not appear to negatively affect muscle control or proprioception.
- Arthroscopy is recommended over arthrotomy when feasible to preserve joint function.
