DOS 2018

DOS Kongressen 2018 · 221 Use of posterior tibial support braces for posterior cruciate ligament injury treatment; patients’ perspective Lone Frandsen, Randi Gram Rasmussen, Torsten Grønbech Nielsen, Martin Lind Division of Sports Trauma, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Aarhus University Hospital ; Department of Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy , Aarhus University Hospital Background: Knee braces for static and dynamic posterior tibial support (PTS) are used in non-operative treatment of acute injury to the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL). Typically, the braces are used for a longer period requiring opti- mal patient compliance. Patients’ perceptions on possible physical, psychologi- cal and social challenges associated with the use of PTS braces have not been described in the existing literature. Purpose / Aim of Study: To describe patient-reported problems associated with use of either static or a dynamic PTS braces. Materials and Methods: A prospective and descriptive cohort study of 54 consecutively enrolled patients undergoing non-operative treatment of acute injury to the PCL. Data were collected from a non-validated questionnaire de- signed on the basis of data from semi- structured patient interviews and in- cluding questions on skin disorders, problems with odor, choice of clothes and influence on sleep. Data were collected after eight weeks of continuous use of either a static brace (SB) or a dynamic brace (DB). Findings / Results: A total of 34 (63%) patients used a SB; 20 (37%) patients used a DB. Problems to the skin such as excoriations, rashes and wounds were reported by 71% in the SB group and by 65% in the DB group. Odor problems from the lining of the brace were reported by 53% in the SB group and by 60% in the DB group. Influence on choice of clothes was reported by 97% in the SB group and by 95% in the DB group. Negative influence on sleep was reported by 76% in the SB group and by 80% in the DB group. Conclusions: PTS bracing of patients with acute injury to the PCL undergoing non-operative treatment is highly associated with challenges related to prob- lems with the skin, odor, sleep and choice of clothes. Type of brace, static or dynamic, had little influence on challenges associated with brace treatment. 162.