2024 COA Annual Meeting: The impact of postoperative neuromuscular electric stimulation (NMES) on outcomes in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Twenty-two randomized controlled trials involving patients with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction were included in this systematic review and meta-analysis comparing rehabilitation protocols with and without neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES). Pooled outcomes of interest included quadriceps strength, knee pain, thigh circumference, and functional scores (IKDC and Lysholm). The pooled results indicated that NMES might improve quadriceps strength in the short- to medium-term, though evidence was inconsistent, and some studies showed no significant differences. The main findings suggest NMES could be beneficial in enhancing quadriceps strength post-ACL reconstruction, but further research with standardized protocols is necessary.