Unicondylar Knee Replacement in Pune
Discover Cutting-Edge Solutions for Knee Pain with our Unicondylar Knee Replacement Surgery
Unicondylar knee replacement surgery, also known as partial or unicompartmental knee replacement, is an advanced orthopaedic procedure designed to address knee pain and restore mobility in patients suffering from localised knee arthritis. Unlike total knee replacement, which involves replacing the entire knee joint, unicondylar knee replacement targets only the damag
ed portion of the knee, preserving healthy tissue.
During the surgery, the orthopaedic surgeon removes damaged cartilage and bone from the affected area and replaces them with artificial components, typically made of metal and plastic. This precise approach allows for smaller incisions, shorter recovery times, and greater range of motion post-surgery. Unicondylar knee replacement is particularly beneficial for patients with arthritis limited to one specific area of the knee and healthy ligaments. This advanced treatment option provides relief from knee pain and the opportunity for a quicker return to an active lifestyle.
When Is Surgery Recommended
Surgery for unicondylar knee replacement is recommended in specific situations, primarily when conservative treatments have proven ineffective in managing knee pain and limited mobility caused by localised knee arthritis. The decision to undergo surgery is typically based on the following criteria:
Diagnosis of Unicompartmental Osteoarthritis: Surgery is recommended when a patient is diagnosed with unicompartmental osteoarthritis, meaning that the arthritis is limited to one specific area or compartment of the knee joint.
Inadequate Pain Relief: If non-surgical interventions such as physical therapy, medications, lifestyle modifications, and joint injections no longer provide sufficient pain relief, and the patient's quality of life is significantly impacted by knee pain.
Difficulty with Mobility: When knee arthritis leads to significant stiffness and difficulty in walking, causing limitations in daily activities and reducing overall mobility.
Damage Confined to a Single Compartment: The arthritis damage must be localised to one compartment of the knee, mainly medial or lateral compartment allowing for a partial replacement without affecting the healthy portions of the joint.
Ligaments in Good Condition: The knee ligaments surrounding the affected compartment should be in good condition, particularly the ACL ligament as this contributes to the success of the procedure.
Thorough Evaluation: Patients are evaluated through physical examinations and imaging tests such as X-rays and MRI scans to determine the extent and location of the knee damage before surgery is recommended. Also clinical evaluation should have minimal fixed deformities like Varus or flexion deformity with the aim of ensuring that the patient is a suitable candidate for the recommended surgical procedure.
Procedure
The procedure for unicondylar knee replacement at Polaris HealthCare involves a thorough pre-operative evaluation to ensure a safe and successful surgery. This evaluation includes a comprehensive physical examination, laboratory testing, and diagnostic imaging to assess your knee's condition and overall health. These findings help our skilled surgeons create a personalised risk profile for each patient, enabling them to anticipate potential challenges and minimise the risk of early implant failure.
During the surgical procedure, our experienced surgeon makes a small incision to access the damaged knee compartment. With precision and care, the surgeon gently moves the knee's supporting components aside, providing access to the arthritic tibia and femur. These surfaces are meticulously cleaned of worn-out cartilage and damaged bone tissue. In essence, unicondylar knee replacement involves replacing only the affected portion of the knee joint, using a smaller incision compared to the one required for a complete knee replacement. This minimally invasive approach aims to relieve pain, restore mobility, and enhance the overall quality of life for our patients.
Post-Surgery Care
Post-surgery care is crucial for a successful recovery following unicondylar knee replacement. While most patients describe the post-operative pain as minor or tolerable, it's essential to manage discomfort effectively. Here are some important steps to take during the recovery process,
Use a cushion under your calf or ankle (not your knee) to raise your leg above heart level.
Apply ice for 20 minutes, three to four times daily, using a cloth as a barrier.
Take prescribed oral painkillers as directed for discomfort management.
Stay in touch with your surgeon; if knee discomfort worsens or you have concerns, contact them promptly.
Follow the prescribed schedule for dietary supplements and medications.
Participate in recommended physiotherapy sessions to regain knee strength and mobility.
FAQ'S
1. What is knee arthroscopy, and when is it recommended?
Knee arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat various knee conditions. It's recommended when conservative treatments like rest, physical therapy, or medication fail to provide relief from knee pain or when there's a need for a precise diagnosis of unexplained knee symptoms.
2. What are the common knee issues treated with arthroscopy?
Knee arthroscopy can address a range of knee problems, including torn meniscus, ligament injuries like ACL or PCL tears, inflammation of the synovium, cartilage damage, loose fragments in the joint, and patella-related issues.
3. What can I expect during the recovery period after knee arthroscopy?
Recovery from knee arthroscopy involves rest, keeping weight off the knee, and possibly using crutches or a walker. Elevating the leg to reduce swelling is crucial. Patients are typically advised to follow a physiotherapy program to regain full mobility and function gradually.
4. How long does knee arthroscopy surgery typically take?
The duration of knee arthroscopy can vary depending on the complexity of the issue being addressed. On average, the procedure takes about 30 minutes to an hour. However, your orthopaedic surgeon will provide you with a more accurate estimate based on your specific case and number of ligament repaired or reconstructed .
5. Is knee arthroscopy an outpatient procedure?
Yes, knee arthroscopy is often performed as an outpatient procedure, meaning you can typically go home on the same day as your surgery. However, the exact discharge plan may vary based on your surgeon's recommendation and your overall health.