Sports Injuries: Causes, Treatment, and Prevention
September 15, 2024
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Unicondylar Knee Replacement
Unicondylar knee replacement (also known as partial knee replacement) is a minimally invasive surgical procedure designed to relieve pain and restore function in patients with damage localized to one compartment of the knee joint. This technique is particularly beneficial for those with early to moderate osteoarthritis or those who have suffered an injury affecting only one part of the knee.
In unicondylar knee replacement, only the damaged part of the knee is replaced with a prosthetic implant, preserving the healthy bone and cartilage in the unaffected areas. This approach allows for a less invasive procedure compared to total knee replacement, resulting in several advantages for the patient.
Who Needs Unicondylar Knee Replacement?
Candidates for unicondylar knee replacement typically exhibit:
- Localized knee pain that affects only one side of the knee.
- Osteoarthritis or damage limited to one compartment of the knee.
- Reduced mobility and difficulty performing daily activities due to pain.
- Inadequate relief from conservative treatments, such as medications, physical therapy, or injections.
The Procedure
The unicondylar knee replacement procedure involves the following steps:
- Anesthesia: Patients receive either general or regional anesthesia to ensure comfort during the surgery.
- Incision: A smaller incision is made over the affected knee, allowing for a less invasive approach.
- Removal of Damaged Tissue: The surgeon removes the damaged cartilage and bone from the affected compartment.
- Implantation: A prosthetic implant is positioned in the knee joint, restoring function and alleviating pain.
- Closure: The incision is closed, and the knee is bandaged.
The surgery typically lasts about 1 to 2 hours and is often performed on an outpatient basis, allowing for a quicker recovery and return home.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Post-surgery, recovery from unicondylar knee replacement is generally faster than that of total knee replacement. Patients can expect:
- Early mobility: Most patients can begin walking with assistance within a day or two.
- Physical therapy: A structured rehabilitation program to improve strength, flexibility, and overall function is initiated shortly after surgery.
- Gradual return to activities: Many patients can resume light activities within a few weeks, with full recovery taking about 3 to 6 months.
About Dr. Saif Nabi Shah
I currently practice at Medanta Hospital, Lucknow, where I’m the Director of the Institute of Musculoskeletal Disorders and Orthopaedics.
My expertise covers Partial and Total Knee Replacement Surgery, Hip Replacement Surgery, Revision Surgeries, as well as Spinal Decompression & Fixation. To date, I’ve performed over 1500 joint replacement surgeries and more than 5000 orthopaedic surgeries.
Google Reviews
Dr. Saif is very kindness and having good knowledge.Thanks to Dr Saif and entire team for operating surgery my Right hand shoulder
Experience is very much excellentDr Saif sir and his all team person work is very excellent
Dear Dr. SaifThanks for the great care after my Mother TKR surgery! Your expertise and support have made a huge difference in my Mother recovery. pain-free and regaining strength. Appreciate your guidance and would highly recommend you to others.
Dr. Saif N Shah and his team was kind. He listened to my concerns, and I greatly appreciated him walking me through every step of my forearm surgery I received. I felt confident with his treatment plan and would highly recommend him to other patients.
Dr Saif N Shah with his team is best doctor for orthopedic surgery. I was very much worried about my daughter's surgery but Dr Saif explained in detail the surgery procedure in very polite manner . After surgery I am very satisfied. Thanks to Dr Saif and team to perform pre and Post surgery care. I also appreciate the works and care of nursing and patients support staff at medanta specially supporting staff Mrs Geeta. She is very caring. Thanks to Dr Saif and his team .
Dr. Saif isn't just a great doctor, He's a great human being, consciously doesn't write unnecessary tests, even tells u not to visit unnecessarily. In this day and age coming across an individual like him is a blessing in itself, Add his medical expertise on top of it and u get a justification for why doctors are often compared with God.He handled my implant removal with utmost care and responsibility. I wish there were more doctors and in general more humans like Dr. Saif. Thank you sir !
Dr Saif is an excellent surgeon! The way he handles his cases is really impressive. He has a very clear line of thought. He very adeptly tackles the treatment process and understands not just the pain caused by injury but also by the surgery. Thank you Dr Saif and the whole team at Medanta Lucknow for taking such good care of me.
Specialitiy
Tags
OPD Hours
Monday - Friday
9.00 - 17.00
Saturday
9.00 - 17.00
Experience
Years of Working
22+
Joint Replacement Surgeries
2000+
Othopedic Sugeries
6000+
FAQ
The main difference between unicondylar knee replacement (uni knee) and total knee replacement lies in the extent of the surgery. In a unicondylar knee replacement, only one compartment of the knee joint (either the inner or outer part) is replaced, preserving the healthy bone and cartilage in the other compartments. In contrast, total knee replacement involves replacing the entire knee joint, including all three compartments (medial, lateral, and patellofemoral). Because of this, unicondylar knee replacement is less invasive, typically results in a quicker recovery, and may cause less post-operative pain.
Recovery time for unicondylar knee replacement is generally faster than for total knee replacement. Most patients can begin walking with assistance within 1 to 2 days post-surgery. While many patients notice significant improvement in mobility within a few weeks, full recovery and the return to normal activities typically take about 3 to 6 months. The exact duration of recovery may vary based on individual health, adherence to rehabilitation, and the extent of the surgery.
Unicondylar knee replacement is indicated for patients who:
- Have localized osteoarthritis affecting only one compartment of the knee.
- Experience severe pain that limits daily activities but have healthy bone and cartilage in the other compartments.
- Have not found relief from conservative treatments, such as medications or physical therapy.
- Are generally in good health and wish to maintain or regain an active lifestyle.
This procedure is often recommended for younger, more active patients with limited joint damage.
Testimonials
Dr. Saif performed knee replacement surgery on my mother, and the results have been amazing. She struggled with pain for years, but now she can move around comfortably again. Dr. Saif was very caring and patient, always making sure we understood everything. We’re very grateful for his help!
I have known Dr. Saif for over 20 years and can attest to his professionalism and sincerity. He is not only highly skilled but also deeply committed to his patients’ well-being. His dedication and compassionate approach make him a trusted and exceptional doctor
I have known Dr. Saif for the past 8 years, and his professionalism and dedication to his work have always impressed me. He consistently demonstrates a sincere commitment to his patients, offering expert care with compassion. Dr. Saif's expertise and caring approach make him a truly exceptional orthopedic surgeon
