Implementing new protocols can go a long way in improving orthopedic patient care, recovery and outcomes.
Ask Orthopedic Surgeons is a weekly series of questions posed to orthopedic surgeons around the country about clinical, business and policy issues affecting spine care. Becker’s invites all orthopedic surgeon and specialist responses.
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Please send responses to Claire Wallace at cwallace@beckershealthcare.com by 5 p.m. CDT Friday, May 30.
Editor’s note: Responses have been lightly edited for clarity and length.
Question: What is one clinical protocol you’ve changed recently that made a big difference in patient outcomes?
Joseph Lamplot, MD. Orthopedic Surgeon & Sports Medicine Specialist at Endeavor Health Orthopaedic & Spine Institute (Kildeer, Des Plaines, Ill.): One recent clinical protocol change has been an enhanced assessment of athletes’ readiness to return to sport postoperatively. It has been commonplace following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, primarily via isokinetic strength testing and functional tests including hopping, cutting, jumping, and landing. But research has clearly demonstrated the importance of psychological preparedness in safely returning to sport following surgery. In my practice, I apply these principles not only to ACL surgery, but to many other procedures, including meniscus repair, patellar stabilization, and shoulder stabilization. Nearly all athletes attempting to return to sport will undergo a functional assessment by their physical therapist prior to being cleared for return to sport. In addition to meeting these evidence-based functional criteria (strength and movement patterns), the athlete must demonstrate psychological preparedness to safely and effectively return to sport. This approach has improved patient outcomes by promoting a safe and confident return to sport while minimizing the incidence of reinjury.
