Electromyographic changes in postmeniscectomy patients. Role of the pneumatic tourniquet

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Abstract
Delayed rehabilitation in postmeniscectomy patients may be due to a slowly resolving axonal compression syndrome secondary to the use of the pneumatic tourniquet. Patients (25) who underwent meniscectomy were examined to determine whether the pneumatic tourniquet used during the procedure caused a neurological deficit detectable by electromyography (EMG). Of these, 18 had postsurgical EMG changes that eventually resolved. A relationship between the occurrence of EMG abnormalities, the duration of the tourniquet inflation during surgery and patient''s recovery time was suggested. Quadricep muscle weakness after knee surgery was generally attributed to disuse atrophy. To prevent this problem, patients participate in a quadriceps exercise program, if possible, before surgery, with continuation after surgery. The persistence of weakness was believed to be secondary to inadequate exercise.

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