Which knee orthosis is used for mediolateral stabilization with postoperative use?

• A. Patellar stabilization
• B. Mediolateral stabilization, collateral ligament, postoperative
• C. Mediolateral stabilization and postoperative use
• D. Ankle stabilization

Answer: (C)

The key idea is protecting the knee in the side-to-side direction after surgery. A knee orthosis designed for mediolateral stabilization resists varus and valgus forces, which are the stresses placed on the collateral ligaments. When used postoperatively, such a brace protects repaired or reconstructed ligaments during early healing and controlled rehabilitation by limiting excessive side-to-side movement while allowing prescribed motion. Patellar stabilization braces target the patellofemoral area, not collateral ligaments, so they aren’t the go-to for this purpose. Ankle stabilization is unrelated to the knee. So, a knee brace that provides mediolateral stabilization and is intended for postoperative use best matches the indication.