Unicompartmental Knee Replacement

Unicompartmental Knee Replacement: A Minimally Invasive Surgery for Knee Pain

If you’re suffering from a knee injury, knee pain, or arthritis, learn how JIS Orthopedics can help you get back to living your life without limits. To schedule a consultation, click the button below!

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“What a refreshing change from some of the other doctors I saw for my knees! The entire staff were top notch! No long wait to see the doctor, which is unheard of around here. He was personable, friendly and professional. He provided me an option for my pain which really helped me. He was honest and to the point. So glad I went to him! Highly recommend him!” — Karen H.

Are you suffering from chronic knee pain due to arthritis? Has knee pain started affecting your quality of life, making simple activities like walking or climbing stairs challenging?

If so, you may be a candidate for a unicompartmental knee replacement—also known as a partial knee replacement. This minimally invasive surgical procedure offers significant pain relief and improved mobility for properly selected patients.

At JIS Orthopedics, our team of orthopedic surgeons specializes in knee procedures and is here to help you find the best solution for your knee pain. Contact our office in New Albany or St. Clairsville today to get the quality care you’re looking for!

What is Unicompartmental Knee Replacement?

Unicompartmental knee replacement is a surgical procedure designed to treat knee arthritis that affects only one compartment of the knee joint. Unlike total knee arthroplasty, which involves replacing all three compartments of the knee joint, unicompartmental or partial knee replacement surgery focuses on replacing just the affected area.

This can be either the medial compartment (inner) or lateral compartment (outer). The medial compartment is most often affected by arthritis. By selectively replacing the damaged portion, partial knee replacements preserve the healthy parts of the knee and offer several advantages over total knee replacement.

Who Can Benefit from Partial Knee Surgery?

Not all patients with knee arthritis are suitable candidates for unicompartmental knee replacement. However, if you have arthritis limited to only one compartment of your knee, and other treatment options have failed to provide adequate pain relief, you may benefit from this procedure.

Proper patient selection is crucial to ensure the best outcomes. Consult with our orthopedic surgeons to determine if you are a candidate for unicompartmental knee replacement.

What Happens During the Procedure?

Your orthopedic surgeon will usually follow these steps during a unicompartmental knee replacement procedure:

Partial knee replacement is performed under general or regional anesthesia.
The surgeon makes a smaller incision compared to total knee replacement, minimizing tissue damage and promoting faster recovery.
The damaged portion of the knee joint, including the femoral and tibial components, is carefully removed and replaced with artificial components made of metal and plastic.
If the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is intact, the surgeon will use either a unicondylar fixed-bearing knee replacement—the most commonly used prosthesis—or a mobile-bearing unicondylar knee replacement.
Bone cement may be used to secure the new components in place.

The surgery itself typically takes about an hour, and most patients can return home on the same day.

Recovery and Postoperative Care

After surgery, you will be closely monitored by our medical team. Physical therapy plays a crucial role in your recovery, helping to restore muscle strength and improve range of motion in the knee joint.

Pain management strategies, such as oral medications and nerve blocks, are employed to ensure your comfort during the healing process. Our orthopedic surgeons will provide detailed postoperative instructions tailored to your specific needs, including recommendations for weight-bearing activities and a gradual return to normal daily activities.

Advantages of Unicompartmental Knee Replacement

Partial knee replacement patients usually experience the following advantages over those who have a total knee replacement:

Smaller incisions and less tissue damage
Reduced postoperative pain
Faster recovery and rehabilitation
More natural knee motion and function
Preservation of healthy knee compartments for potential future treatment options
Lower risk of complications, such as blood clots and infections

Complications and Risks

While unicompartmental knee surgery is generally considered safe and effective, like any surgical procedure, it carries certain risks. Potential complications may include infection, blood clots, implant loosening, nerve or blood vessel injury, and persistent pain.

Our experienced orthopedic surgeons prioritize patient safety and will discuss these risks with you during the consultation process.

How Long Does the Replacement Last?

The longevity of a unicompartmental knee replacement varies from patient to patient. However, with proper patient selection and adherence to postoperative care and rehabilitation, these replacements can last for more than 20 years in many cases. Regular follow-up visits with your orthopedic surgeon will help monitor the condition of your knee joint and address any concerns that may arise.

Take the First Step Toward a Pain-Free Life

If you are struggling with knee pain and seeking an effective, minimally invasive solution, unicompartmental knee replacement may be the answer. At JIS Orthopedics, our experienced orthopedic surgeons are dedicated to providing excellent pain relief and restoring your mobility.

Contact us at our New Albany or St. Clairsville, OH locations to schedule a consultation! Take the first step towards a pain-free life and regain your independence.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Alexander G. Athey

Sources

Treat Your Knee Pain Today

Arthritis of the knee can be very painful and debilitating, but with proper diagnosis and treatment, it can often be managed successfully. If you suspect knee joint arthritis, schedule an appointment with JIS Orthopedics today! We have offices located in New Albany and St. Clairsville.