Our knee has 3 compartments within it. The Medial (Inner), Lateral (Outer) and Patello-Femoral (Superficial).
Often, only the medial compartment of the knee is affected as it is the main weight bearing compartment of the knee while we are in the standing position. Due to bowing position of the legs more weight is borne by the inner (Medial) compartment.
When the pain in this area becomes very severe surgical treatment is needed.
Partial Knee Replacement or UNI-Compartment Knee Replacement is an advanced surgery which involves only the replacement of one half of the knee joint which has been affected (most commonly the medial or inner side).
This procedure removes only the inner portion of the arthritic knee, preserving the other two parts of the knee joint. This essentially preserves a lot of bone which is beneficial. The most important factor is that all 4 main ligaments are preserved along with supporting soft tissues. This makes RECOVERY of these patients EVEN FASTER THEN TOTAL KNEE REPLACEMENT OPERATION PATIENTS.
The Other benefits are….
- Small cut / Scar
- Reduced Hospital Stay
- Quicker Recovery and Rehabilitation
- Minimal Physiotherapy after the operation
- Retains natural joint mechanics
- Less no. of Pain Medications
Post-surgery, with perfect rehabilitation, the patient can achieve full recovery within 3 to 6 weeks along with an ability to resume normal daily activities without the pre-operative pain and restrictions. Patients have also been able to perform activities like travelling by bus, trains, long walks. Sports like cycling, hiking, mountaineering, Badminton and tennis etc.
The patients who have undergone UniCompartment knee replacement have recovered so well that after a few months they forget that they had Knee operation.
