Diseases affecting the knee, namely arthrosis, meniscus injuries and tendinopathies, require an integrated clinical approach. This was the main conclusion of the meeting “From the operating theatre to rehabilitation – knee pathology” , which gathered orthopaedists and physiotherapists on January 10, at Hospital da Luz Coimbra, with the purpose of reinforcing communication between these two areas and thus establish the best care for the patient. “We have approached the whole path of the orthopaedic patient, from the surgical moment in the operating theatre to the full functional recovery in the context of rehabilitation”, explains Carlos Mesquita Queirós , Hospital da Luz Coimbra orthopaedist and organizer of the event. “We have promoted a technical discussion on the latest approaches in arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. In parallel, physiotherapists and specialists in rehabilitation presented clinical cases and therapeutical strategies, evidencing the importance of care continuity between surgical intervention and the return to physical activity”, he adds. The program of the journeys, mostly destined to physiotherapists, included the following topics: Knee arthroplasty, discussed by a panel moderated by orthopaedist Armando Pires ;. Knee sports medicine, with a panel moderated by António Cruz Ferreira , coordinator of Hospital da Luz Coimbra Sports Medicine Centre. Management between physicians and physiotherapists, a communication presented by José Pedro Marques , specialist in sports medicine from Hospital da Luz Lisboa. The meeting allowed to clarify and explain different surgical techniques, examining the main indications, objectives, limitations, and realistic expectations of each procedure. “This sharing of knowledge is fundamental for a better understanding of the surgical options rationale and a more effective adaptation of the rehabilitation programs”, highlights Carlos Mesquita Queirós. The journeys were also notable for the appreciation of physiotherapists view concerning clinical guidance and the impact of surgical options on the process of functional recovery. “The earliness of intervention after knee prosthesis placement is extremely important for the recovery of functionality and autonomy”, states Rui Duarte , the physiotherapy coordinator of Hospital da Luz Coimbra. Being able to “communicate in a clear manner the whole process of rehabilitation, offer quality in procedures, and being assertive in pain management are factors that define distinctively the surgical success of the intervention, in the sense that understanding and managing the pain potentiate results and functionality”, he adds. This exchange of perspectives allowed orthopaedists to better understand the challenges of rehabilitation and to reflect on how surgical decisions then influence the time and quality of recovery. The dialogue between professionals reinforced the importance of teamwork and shared decision making, principles that were the basis for the organization of this event headed by Carlos Queirós. In the end, it was clear that collaboration and communication between orthopaedists and physiotherapists enhances the efficacy of treatment, increases safety, and reinforces the patient’s trust throughout his clinical journey.
