CPM

Question 1

Indications

Answer 1

To reduce blood and fluid accumulation in and around joints following trauma or surgery (usually TKA)
To maintain motion following injury or surgery
To prevent stiffness following injury or surgery

Question 2

Contraindications

Answer 2

If ligaments are insufficient
Joint instability
If fracture fixation has not been attained

Question 3

Precautions

Answer 3

• May increase wound drainage
• Wound swelling could risk incision healing. If would is swollen before CPM begins, may have to bring joint into flexion and extension to “milk” extra fluid before beginning CPM
• Do not have circumferential dressing (cling wrap, ace wrap, etc) in place when using CPM. Movement of the wraps can cause abrasions
• Check positioning often to prevent pressure nerve palsies

Question 4

Controls

Answer 4

Arc of Motion: Est. per surgeon
Tx Time: continusous except for bathroom breaks
Length of Tx: 7-10 days although may be used for 21-30 if needed
Positioning: to maintain proper axes of motion

Question 5

Use

Answer 5

• ROM typically set by surgeon
• Speed to pt. comfort
• Compliance: once out of the hospital pt. typically have poor compliance
• Alignment: it is very easy for a pt. to incorrectly set up the machine or to not stay secured