Osteochondral Autograft Transplant (OATS)

Phase I (Weeks 0-6)

1. Weightbearing: Non-weightbearing
2. Bracing
   • Hinged knee brace locked in extension (Week 1) – remove for CPM and rehab with PT
   • Weeks 2–6: Gradually open brace in 20° increments as quad control is obtained
   • Discontinue brace when patient can perform straight-leg raise without an extension lag
3. Range of Motion
   • Continuous Passive Motion (CPM) machine for 6–8 hours per day for 6–8 weeks
   • Set CPM to 1 cycle per minute – starting at 40° of flexion
   • Advance 10° per day until full flexion is achieved (target 100° by week 6)
   • PROM / AAROM and stretching under guidance of PT
4. Therapeutic Exercises
   • Patellar mobilization
   • Quad / Hamstring / Adductor / Gluteal sets – straight-leg raises / ankle pumps
   • Stationary bike for ROM

Phase II (Weeks 6-8)

1. Weightbearing: Advance to full weightbearing as tolerated — discontinue crutch use
2. Range of Motion – Advance to full / painless ROM (goal: 130° of flexion)
3. Therapeutic Exercises
   • Closed-chain exercises – wall sits, shuttle, mini-squats, toe raises
   • Gait training
   • Patellar mobilization
   • Begin unilateral stance activities

Phase III (Weeks 8-12)

1. Weightbearing: Full weightbearing
2. Range of Motion – Full / painless ROM
3. Therapeutic Exercises
   • Advance closed-chain strengthening exercises and proprioception activities
   • Sport-specific rehabilitation
   • Gradual return to athletic activity as tolerated
   • Jogging at 3 months
   • Higher-impact activities at 4–6 months
4. Maintenance program for strength and endurance