Rehabilitation Treatment Of Tuberculosis Of The Knee Joint (Gonitis Tuberculosis) After Synovectomy Surgery: A Case Report

Abstract

Introduction: The incidence of extrapulmonary tuberculosis (EPT) cases is increasing globally. with bones and joints being the most common sites, accounting for over 10% of occurrences. Tuberculosis of the knee is rare case, presents challenges in prompt diagnosis, leading to severe progressive pain and functional impairment that significantly impacts the patient's quality of life. Case Persentation: A 42-year-old male patient experienced chronic pain in the right knee joint, stiffness and limitations when moving the knee. Physical examination showed swelling, warmth and redness. The range of movement of the knee was limited. Histopathological examination showed that the patient was diagnosed with tuberculosis of the knee. Synovectomy was performed after a diagnosis of tuberculosis of the knee and followed by a 9-month anti-tuberculosis drugs regimen. Knee range of motion (ROM) exercise and diathermy therapy showed clinical improvement after prompt management since the initiation of progressive rehabilitation therapy. Conclusion: Tuberculosis of the knee is a rare complication of tuberculosis which has the potential to cause functional impairment and affect the quality of life. Providing physiotherapy interventions in the form of exercises and diathermy therapy in post-synovectomy cases for one year resulted in significant functional progress.