Partial knee replacement surgery
If only one part of the knee is affected and the rest is healthy, a partial knee replacement, also known as unicompartmental knee replacement (UKR), might be the best solution. This surgical technique has been pioneered in the UK and has a high satisfaction rate of 95%. It is particularly beneficial because it preserves the ligaments and most knee cartilage while replacing only the arthritic section. Partial knee replacements provide a more stable and natural feel than total knee replacements, which is why they are now used for patients of all ages. It is also considered a safer and less invasive procedure, with a faster recovery time. However, a study conducted in Bristol and published in The Lancet showed that 70% of patients who received partial knee replacements required new surgical intervention after 25 years.
Overview
Many people think that arthritis is a natural part of getting older, but in reality, it can affect people of any age. Sadly, a lot of people do not get the proper treatment for this condition. When it affects the knee, it can cause immobility and a shorter life expectancy because of the higher risk of obesity, heart disease, and respiratory issues.
The Chief Medical Officer in Britain suggests that individuals should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity each week, but this can be difficult for those who are experiencing knee pain.
Causes
Arthritis is caused by inflammation in conjunction with wear and tear. Several risk factors increase the risk of arthritis, though the cause is not always clear, these include:
- Age — the strongest among the risks
- Genetic — cross-generational ailments indicate genes associated with vulnerable cartilage
- Gender — slightly more common among women
- Obesity — individuals with a BMI >36, are 14 times more likely to suffer from knee osteoarthritis
- Trauma and infection — a fracture or infection affecting the joint can cause damage to the knee cartilage
Symptoms
Arthritis in the knee can lead to pain, stiffness, and limited mobility, which can impact a person’s ability to work and enjoy leisure or sports activities.
- Keeping fit — obesity, cardiac risk and respiratory disease restrict levels of activity
- Socialising — joining family and friends in more vigorous activities
- Work — 25% of people suffering from severe knee arthritis take early retirement
- Enjoying life — poor health and mobility are associated with depression
Diagnostics
To diagnose a knee condition, medical history, physical examination, and imaging tests are necessary. The Cabot Clinic offers quick access to advanced medical imaging technologies such as X-ray, computed tomography (CT or CaT scan), and a state-of-the-art 3-Tesla MRI scanner.
Treatments
Non-operative strategies
There are alternative treatments to knee replacement surgery that go beyond painkillers and physical therapy. Some of these treatments may be helpful and worth considering:
- Biologic injections
- Hyaluronic injections
- Weight loss surgery
- Osteotomy surgery
- Knee braces
Recovery
At Cabot Clinic, we have a rapid recovery technique that encourages early mobility for our patients. Our post-surgery recovery package includes all necessary medications. Most patients can stand up on the same day as their surgery and walk shortly after. We achieve this through an intensive physical therapy program that continues for several weeks after the surgery. Patients who have had a partial knee replacement usually leave the hospital within 2 days, while those who have had a total knee replacement usually stay for 3 days. However, it’s important to keep in mind that recovering from major surgery is a long process that requires patience. While significant improvements are usually seen within 3 months, it can take up to 18 months of personal rehab investment to fully experience the benefits.
References
Could partial knee replacement help relieve your knee pain?
If you have been diagnosed with knee arthritis and conservative treatments are no longer providing adequate relief, speak to a specialist about whether partial knee replacement may be a suitable option.