Temperature-sensitive release of prostaglandin E₂ and diminished energy requirements in synovial tissue with postoperative cryotherapy: a prospective randomized study after knee arthroscopy.

Background: Local external cooling of the surgical field after joint surgery is intended to enhance recovery and to facilitate the use of outpatient surgery by reducing pain and improving mobility. We hypothesized that the effects of postoperative cooling and compression after knee arthroscopy would be reflected in changes in the concentrations of metabolic and inflammatory markers in the synovial membrane.

Methods: Forty otherwise healthy patients who were to undergo knee arthroscopy were included in the study, and half were randomized to receive postoperative cooling and compression.