Cryocompression methods following ACLr: an RCT

  • Research type

    Research Study

  • Full title

    Comparison of outcomes when using an ice pack or electronic cryocompression device following ACL reconstruction: a randomised controlled trial

  • IRAS ID

    332948

  • Contact name

    Angie Dempster

  • Contact email

    angie.dempster@hhft.nhs.uk

  • Sponsor organisation

    Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

  • ISRCTN Number

    ISRCTN67880512

  • Duration of Study in the UK

    1 years, 9 months, 31 days

  • Research summary

    Cryocompression following knee surgery is an established method for improving outcomes such as pain and patient satisfaction in the acute post-operative period. Cryocompression therapy has historically been applied through the use of ice packs and bandages, but advances in technology have resulted in the development of electronic devices that provide user-modifiable compression and a continuous flow of temperature-controlled water through a cuff wrapped around the treatment area. One key benefit of such devices is that it they are portable and can therefore be transported and operated easily within clinical or domestic settings. This is of particular relevance for patients undergoing day-case surgical procedures such as ACL reconstruction, as portable devices mean that patients are able to receive the same cryocompression treatments at home as they otherwise would do during a hospital stay. This study seeks to compare clinical outcomes and differences in user adherence to at-home cryocompression when using an electronic cryocompression device or traditional icing methods.

  • REC name

    North West - Greater Manchester South Research Ethics Committee

  • REC reference

    25/NW/0008

  • Date of REC Opinion

    24 Feb 2025

  • REC opinion

    Further Information Favourable Opinion