What is Unicondylar Knee Replacement (Partial Knee Replacement)?

What is Unicondylar Knee Replacement (Partial Knee Replacement)?

Unicondylar knee replacement is a partial prosthetic procedure involving the replacement of only one compartment of the knee joint. It is commonly chosen for early-stage knee osteoarthritis and is less invasive compared to total knee replacement. This article provides detailed information about the treatment process, benefits, and potential complications to help patients make informed decisions.

Unicondylar knee replacement is a surgical procedure that involves replacing only one condyle or one side of the knee joint, preserving the other parts. It is preferred in cases where damage is localized to a single compartment of the knee due to reasons such as osteoarthritis. Compared to total knee replacement, it causes less tissue damage, offers a shorter recovery period, and provides advantages in functional improvement, which has increased its popularity.

This procedure is especially suitable for patients presenting with limited joint damage on the medial or lateral condyle of the knee. It is applied when osteoarthritis affects only one side of the knee. By preserving the healthy structures and replacing only the damaged compartment, the procedure aims to alleviate pain and movement restrictions. Successful results are particularly observed in patients aged 50 to 70 with localized osteoarthritis and good ligament and muscle balance.

Advantages of unicondylar knee replacement include its minimally invasive nature, shorter operation time, reduced blood loss, smaller incisions, and faster rehabilitation. Patients may experience a more natural knee movement and less pain during the early postoperative period. The modular design of the prosthesis also allows for conversion to a total knee prosthesis if necessary, providing flexibility for the patient.

Before surgery, a detailed orthopedic examination and imaging techniques are used to precisely assess the condition of the knee joint. The surgery is performed under general or spinal anesthesia. During the procedure, the damaged condylar bone is removed, and matching prosthetic components are implanted. The prosthesis is firmly fixed to the bone while preserving other healthy knee structures. Physical therapy begins early after surgery, aiming to restore knee mobility, muscle strength, and functional skills.

The risks of surgery are similar to other orthopedic operations and may include infection, vascular or nerve injury, prosthesis mismatch, loosening, or restricted movement. However, appropriate patient selection and precise surgical techniques reduce these risks. Regular follow-ups are conducted to monitor the prosthesis condition and knee function.

Unicondylar knee replacement is an effective treatment method designed to provide a functional and pain-free knee for patients with localized joint damage. It is particularly preferred for early-stage osteoarthritis, localized injuries after sports trauma, and local joint damage caused by meniscus and cartilage problems. When performed by an expert surgeon with proper patient selection, it significantly improves quality of life. Patients can resume active lifestyles relatively quickly post-surgery.