How long does it take to heal from lateral release surgery?

Lateral release surgery is a minimally invasive surgery that is performed via small incisions around the knee. Patients can go home after the procedure. While you will be able to return to your activities within three months with mild discomfort, it will take a year to recover fully.

Is lateral release major surgery?

Lateral release is a minimally invasive surgery used to correct an excessive patellar tilt. It involves cutting through a tight retinaculum so that the kneecap can slip properly into its groove, thereby restoring its normal alignment.

How long should you be on crutches after lateral release?

Use crutches for 5 to 7 days to reduce swelling. The patient may discontinue the crutches when they can walk without pain and without limping. Elevate the knee above the heart for the first 3 to 5 days.

Is lateral release surgery painful?

Once you have undergone lateral release surgery you will experience pain, stiffness, swelling and limited range of movement in your knee. You will have a bandage and pad placed on the outer side of your knee to attempt to hold the patella in its correct position and prevent it returning to the outer side of the knee.

How long is knee swelling after lateral release?

Covering the knee is a compression stocking and gauze. The gauze can be removed the day after the operation but the compression stocking should be worn during the day until your swelling reduces (usually about 2-4 weeks). Your knee usually becomes quite swollen. It can take 6-8 weeks for the swelling to settle.

When can you drive after a lateral release?

Driving: Right knee patients and left knee patients with a standard transmission car cannot drive until out of the knee immobilizer, off all pain meds and can fully weight bear without pain. Airplane Flights: You may fly 2-3 weeks after surgery on short flights (under 2 hours), 6-8 weeks for longer flights.

What can go wrong with lateral release?

Potential long-term complications are weakening of the extensor function of the knee, creating medial patellar instability, worsening patellofemoral pain, burning the skin from an aggressive release, and failing to correct the original disorder. The only real short-term complication is hemarthrosis.

When can you drive after lateral release?