Uni Condylar Knee Replacement A Targeted Approach to Knee Pain Relief By Dr. Vivek Bansal
Knee pain is a prevalent issue affecting millions worldwide, often leading to a decline in mobility and quality of life. While total knee replacement is a well-known solution for severe knee arthritis, many patients may not require such an extensive procedure. For those with arthritis confined to a single compartment of the knee, Uni Condylar Knee Replacement (UKR), also known as partial knee replacement, offers a less invasive and highly effective alternative.
Understanding Uni Condylar Knee Replacement
Uni Condylar Knee Replacement is a surgical procedure that involves replacing only the damaged portion of the knee joint, preserving the healthy bone, cartilage, and ligaments. This procedure targets patients with unicompartmental osteoarthritis, where the wear and tear are limited to either the medial (inner) or lateral (outer) side of the knee.
Dr. Vivek Bansal, a renowned orthopedic surgeon specializing in knee surgeries, emphasizes the benefits of UKR. “This procedure allows for a quicker recovery, less pain, and a more natural knee function compared to a total knee replacement,” says Dr. Bansal. “By preserving the unaffected compartments of the knee, patients can maintain better joint stability and range of motion.”
Who is a Candidate for Uni Condylar Knee Replacement?
Not all patients with knee arthritis are candidates for UKR. The ideal candidate typically has:
- Arthritis limited to one compartment of the knee.
- Intact ligaments, especially the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL).
- A stable knee without significant deformity.
- A relatively active lifestyle with a desire to return to normal activities quickly.
Dr. Bansal carefully evaluates each patient’s condition through clinical assessments and imaging studies to determine their suitability for UKR. “It’s essential to select the right patient for this procedure to ensure optimal outcomes,” he adds.
The Surgical Procedure
During Uni Condylar Knee Replacement, Dr. Bansal makes a smaller incision compared to total knee replacement. The damaged cartilage and bone are removed, and a metal and plastic implant is placed to resurface the affected compartment. The healthy cartilage and bone in the other compartments are left untouched, resulting in a more natural-feeling knee post-surgery.
The surgery typically lasts about one to two hours, and patients can expect to start walking with assistance the same day or the next. Dr. Bansal’s patients often report a quicker recovery and less postoperative pain, allowing them to return to their daily activities sooner.
Benefits of Uni Condylar Knee Replacement
Uni Condylar Knee Replacement offers several advantages, including:
- Quicker Recovery: The less invasive nature of the procedure leads to a faster rehabilitation process.
- Less Pain: Patients experience less postoperative pain due to the smaller incision and preservation of healthy tissues.
- Natural Knee Function: By retaining the unaffected compartments of the knee, patients enjoy a more natural knee movement.
- Lower Risk of Complications: The targeted approach reduces the risk of complications such as infection and blood clots.
Postoperative Care and Rehabilitation
After the surgery, Dr. Bansal emphasizes the importance of a structured rehabilitation program. Physical therapy begins almost immediately to restore strength, flexibility, and range of motion. Patients are encouraged to gradually increase their activity levels under the guidance of a physiotherapist.
Most patients can resume low-impact activities like walking and swimming within a few weeks, while more strenuous activities such as tennis or jogging may take a few months. Dr. Bansal advises regular follow-up visits to monitor the progress and ensure the longevity of the implant.