WHAT IS A UNI-COMPARTMENTAL KNEE REPLACEMENT?

Partial Knee Replacement, also called Uni-compartmental (UNI) Knee Replacement, is a surgical procedure where only a portion of the knee cartilage is replaced. Worn or damaged cartilage is removed from the ends of the leg bones which are then resurfaced with metal implants. A plastic spacer is positioned between the implants. Partial Knee Replacement is only performed on the worn out portion of the knee leaving the healthy portion of the knee intact.

REASON FOR THE PROCEDURE

Arthritis, injury or wear and tear can cause sections of the knee cartilage to wear away. When medication or steroid injections can no longer manage the pain then surgery may be needed. Partial Knee Replacement is similar to a crown on a bad tooth. Only the specific diseased area is replaced, leaving the healthy cartilage alone. This procedure is much smaller in scale than a Total Knee Replacement and feels more natural allowing for a more normal range of motion.

THE PROCEDURE

Performed with minimally invasive techniques and taking less than one hour, the procedure allows for almost immediate walking after surgery. It is performed as an outpatient or with an overnight stay only. Full recovery may take three to eight weeks.

POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS, RISKS, AND COMPLICATIONS

As with all surgical procedures, risks may include reaction to the anesthesia, infection at the surgical site and blood clots. Fortunately, all complications are rare. Partial Knee Replacement components are made in the USA and designed to last 20 plus years.