Uni-Compartmental Knee Replacement
Partial knee replacement has been around for around 30 years. Also called uni-compartmental knee replacement, this procedure replaces only part of a dysfunctional knee joint that has either the outer (lateral) or inner (medial) part of the joint damaged.
The method that Dr. Hoffman and Dr. Mendel performs, uses an implant that allows the partial knee to bend or flex higher, when the patient is able, like that of a natural joint. The implant is placed using minimally invasive techniques, which help most people get back to activity quicker than the traditional method of knee replacement. In addition, there is less manipulation with the quadriceps muscle to minimize trauma to the area. This also has the benefit of potentially speeding up the healing process.
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.
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)
What is the benefit of the partial knee replacement?
- Smaller Incision – A traditional knee replacement surgery involves an incision about 8 inches over the front of the knee. In the minimally invasive partial knee replacement, the incision is about 3 inches, and the amount of dissection and bone removal is much smaller.
- Less Blood Loss – Because of the extent of dissection and bone removal necessary for a total knee replacement, the need for a blood transfusion is relatively common.
- Shorter Recovery – Both the time in hospital and the time to functional recovery are less with the partial knee replacement. Patients are known to have been discharged on the day of the procedure, although most often patients are discharged on the first or second post-operative day.
Post-Operatively
Rehabilitation/recovery time for the partial knee replacement is typically around 5 weeks for most patients, but will vary. Patients are typically using some sort of assistive walking device (crutches, cane or walker) for about two weeks, then continued therapy for another four to six weeks.
After recovery, most patients are able to resume such activities as walking, dancing, golfing, bicycling and swimming.
Will I need surgery again after a partial replacement?
The partial knee replacement helps alleviate pain and may delay the need for total knee replacement. When patients are selected properly, this minimally invasive procedure is very successful. However, there are some patients that continue to develop arthritis in other areas of the knee and some patients may wear out the uni-compartmental knee implant. One of the benefits of the uni-compartmental knee procedure is that it normally leaves enough bone to accommodate a primary total knee prosthesis at a later date, if required.
