Unicompartmental Knee Replacement
Targeted relief for isolated knee pain
If you’re suffering from knee arthritis or degenerative joint disease that affects only one compartment of your knee, unicompartmental knee replacement (also known as partial knee replacement) may be the ideal solution for you. This innovative procedure aims to relieve pain and restore function while preserving healthy bone and tissue in the other compartments of the knee.
At Melbourne Orthopaedic Clinic, our team is dedicated to providing personalised care for patients exploring unicompartmental knee replacement. We prioritise understanding your specific condition and lifestyle needs to determine the best course of treatment for your recovery.
Indications For Unicompartmental Knee Replacement
Unicompartmental knee replacement is typically recommended for patients experiencing:
- Localised Knee Pain: Persistent pain in one specific area of the knee, often due to osteoarthritis or post-traumatic arthritis.
- Joint Stiffness: Reduced motion in the affected compartment, which may hinder daily activities.
- Ineffective Conservative Treatments: Limited improvement with non-surgical treatments such as medications, physical therapy, or injections.
If these symptoms significantly affect your quality of life, it may be time to consider unicompartmental knee replacement.
The Unicompartmental Knee Replacement Procedure
The unicompartmental knee replacement procedure is typically performed under general or regional anaesthesia, and it generally involves the following steps:
- Incision: A small incision is made on the side of the knee to access the affected compartment.
- Preparation of the Bone: Damaged cartilage and bone from the affected compartment are carefully removed.
- Implant Placement: A metal and plastic prosthesis is positioned to replace the damaged surfaces, preserving the healthy tissue in the unaffected compartments.
- Closure: The incision is closed with sutures or staples, and a dressing is applied to protect the surgical site.
The procedure usually takes about one hour, after which you will be monitored in a recovery area before being transferred to a hospital room.
Post-Operative Expectations After Unicompartmental Knee Replacement Knee
Following unicompartmental knee replacement, patients can expect some degree of pain, swelling, and stiffness. Pain management will be addressed through medications, ice therapy, and a tailored physical therapy program that will begin soon after surgery to aid recovery.
You may use a walker or crutches initially and will be encouraged to perform gentle exercises to promote healing and circulation. Our nursing staff will guide you on wound care and any activity restrictions to follow during your recovery.
Recovery Timelines Following Unicompartmental Knee Replacement
The recovery process varies among individuals, but typical timelines include:
- First 1 to 2 Weeks: Focus on pain management, reducing swelling, and starting physiotherapy to regain mobility.
- 2 to 6 Weeks: Increase in mobility and strengthening exercises with continued physiotherapy support.
- 6 Weeks to 3 Months: Most patients can gradually return to low-impact activities, experiencing ongoing improvements in range of motion and function.
- 3 to 6 Months: Many patients can return to more active pursuits, with continued improvement in strength and stability.
Regular follow-up appointments will ensure that our orthopaedic surgeons can monitor your recovery and adjust your rehabilitation plan as necessary.
Risks Associated With Unicompartmental Knee Replacement
Unicompartmental knee replacement is generally safe, but potential risks include:
General Surgical Risks
- Infection: A risk of infection at the surgical site that may require antibiotics or further intervention.
- Bleeding: Excessive bleeding can occur, potentially requiring medical attention.
- Blood Clots: A risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can arise post-surgery, which may require preventative measures such as medication or compression devices.
- Anaesthesia Risks: Potential complications related to anaesthesia will be discussed before the procedure.
Specific Risks Related To Unicompartmental Knee Replacement
- Implant Failure: Although rare, the artificial joint may wear out or fail, necessitating a revision surgery.
- Persistent Pain or Stiffness: Some patients may continue to experience discomfort or limited motion post-surgery.
- Nerve or Blood Vessel Injury: Rarely, surrounding nerves or blood vessels may be damaged during the procedure.
- Instability: Some patients may experience instability in the new joint, potentially leading to falls or further injury.
To mitigate the risks associated with unicompartmental knee replacement, our orthopaedic surgeons, employs several strategies:
- Pre-Surgical Assessment: Comprehensive evaluations to identify pre-existing conditions that may affect surgery or recovery.
- Post-Surgical Rehabilitation: A structured physiotherapy program tailored to your needs and recovery goals will be implemented.
- Patient Education: Thorough guidance on post-operative care, activity restrictions, and realistic recovery timelines will be provided to ensure a safe return to activities.
At Melbourne Orthopaedic Clinic, we are committed to helping you achieve optimal outcomes through expert care and personalised rehabilitation plans. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.