Computer-assisted cryocompression therapy reduces pain and enhances rapid recovery of range of motion after unicompartmental knee arthroplasty

Author(s): Stefano Petrillo, Matteo Marullo, Guido Bandettini, Edoardo Bertello, Biagio Zampogna, Laura Mangiavini, Giuseppe M. Peretti, Paolo Perazzo, Sergio Romagnoli, Riccardo Giorgino

Background/Objectives: Knee prosthetic surgery is highly effective for advanced osteoarthritis, improving quality of life. Postoperative pain management and rapid knee range of motion recovery are crucial for avoiding readmissions. Cryocompression therapy reduces pain, swelling, and opioid use. Computer-assisted cryocompression therapy (CACCT) shows promise over traditional ice packs in enhancing recovery after unicompartmental knee arthroplasty. This study aims to compare cryocompression therapy and ice pack therapy (IPT) in unicompartmental knee arthroplasty for improved recovery and outcomes. Methods: A single-center retrospective comparative study analyzed the efficacy of CA-CCT versus IPT in 35 patients who underwent medial UKA, matched 1:1 with a control group (35 patients). Both groups were similar in terms of sex, age, body mass index, and preoperative hemoglobin values. All patients underwent spinal anesthesia, used intra-articular drains removed after 6 hours, and followed a standardized analgesic protocol. Statistical analysis was performed to evaluate differences in ROM, visual analogue scale for pain, blood loss, and decrease in Hb. Significance was set at P < 0.05. Results: No complications, readmissions, or prolonged hospital stays were reported, with a mean stay of 2 days for both groups. Statistically significant improvements in ROM (P < 0.00001) and VAS scores (P < 0.00001) were observed in the CA-CCT group at 6, 24 and 48 hours postsurgery compared to the IPT group. Blood loss and Hb decrease were similar between groups (P = 0.6 for blood loss and P = 0.8 for Hb decrease). Conclusions: CA-CCT significantly improves postoperative pain control and knee function compared to IPT after UKA. Future prospective studies are needed to validate these results and assess the cost-effectiveness of CA-CCT.