Unicondylar Knee Replacement, also known as Unicompartmental Knee Arthroplasty or Partial Knee Replacement, is a surgical procedure designed for patients whose knee damage is limited to just one compartment of the knee. Unlike Total Knee Replacement (TKR) that replaces the entire knee joint, Unicondylar Knee Replacement focuses on the affected compartment, either medial (inside), lateral (outside), or patellofemoral (front of the knee), preserving as much of the knee’s natural structure as possible.
Indications
This procedure is ideal for patients with osteoarthritis confined to a single compartment of the knee, who still have good knee joint stability and intact anterior cruciate ligaments. It’s particularly beneficial for those seeking a faster recovery and a more natural knee function post-surgery.
Procedure
During the surgery, the surgeon makes a smaller incision than would be required for a TKR. The damaged portion of the knee is removed and replaced with metal and plastic components. The rest of the knee, including the healthy cartilage and bone, as well as all ligaments, are preserved.
Advantages
Unicondylar Knee Replacement offers several benefits over TKR, including less post-operative pain, shorter hospital stays, quicker recovery times, and more natural knee movement. It also involves less bone removal and less blood loss during surgery.
Recovery and Outcomes
Patients typically experience a faster return to normal activities and have a more natural feeling in their knee after a Unicondylar Knee Replacement compared to a TKR. Rehabilitation involves physical therapy focused on restoring knee strength and mobility. While the longevity of the partial replacement is slightly less than that of a total replacement, advancements in surgical techniques and prosthetic designs have significantly improved outcomes.
Unicondylar Knee Replacement represents a less invasive option for treating knee arthritis limited to one compartment, offering patients the potential for a quicker recovery and more natural knee function.
