Unicompartmental Knee Replacement


Minimally invasive partial knee surgery
Partial knee replacement, also called a unicompartmental knee arthroplasty,' is a surgery that may be considered for treatment of osteoarthritis of the knee joint. Traditionally, patients have undergone total knee replacement for severe arthritis of the knee joint. In a total knee replacement, all cartilage is removed from the knee joint, and a metal and plastic implant is substituted.

The partial knee replacement surgical procedure has generated significant interest because it entails a smaller incision and faster recovery than traditional total joint replacement surgery. Partial knee replacement, also called unicompartmental knee replacement' and 'minimally invasive knee surgery,' removes only the most damaged areas of cartilage, and replaces these surfaces.





Who is a good candidate for partial knee replacement?
The minimally invasive partial knee replacement is indicated in patients who have severe arthritis of the knee that have failed conservative treatments may consider this procedure. Conservative measures may include, but are not limited to, medications (such as Advil, Naprosyn, Celebrex, and Vioxx), cortisone injections, strengthening exercises, and weight loss. If these treatments are not adequate, and you as a patient are not satisfied, then surgical procedures may be considered.

The partial knee surgery may be possible if the arthritis in the knee is confined to a limited area. If the arthritis is widespread, then the partial knee replacement is NOT appropriate, and should not be considered. In addition, the partial knee surgery is recommended in patients who are:

• Older than 55 years
• Not obese
• Relatively sedentary
• Have intact ligaments (specifically the ACL)

If these qualifications are not met, then the minimally invasive partial knee surgery may not be as successful. Unfortunately, many patients are therefore ineligible for this minimally invasive procedure.