The affected limb is immobilized in the straight position with a thigh cast or removable knee brace.
The patient can walk on the first postoperative day, and the degree of weight-bearing on the affected limb is determined by the patient’s tolerance.
Isometric exercises and straight leg tensing exercises were started on the first postoperative day. Patients with strong fixation and few tears in the support band can start continuous passive activities after surgery if they wish.
Active joint mobility exercises are started 2-3 weeks postoperatively, after the wound has healed. At 6-8 weeks postoperatively, if x-rays clearly show that the fracture has healed, the brace can be removed and resistance exercises can be started.
At 18-24 weeks postoperatively, the quadriceps muscle strength is fully restored and unrestricted activity can be performed.
In patients with poor fixation and extensive damage to the support band, active activity should be delayed until the fracture appears to heal. It is advisable to start joint mobility exercises at 6 weeks postoperatively, which can be done with a mobility-controlled knee brace, allowing full extension and flexion depending on the patient’s injury and intraoperative fixation.