Arthritis is a group of conditions that cause damage to one or more joints. Your surgeon will recommend a unicompartmental knee replacement operation when the indications for such a procedure are met.
The most common type of arthritis is osteoarthritis, where there is gradual wear and tear of a joint. In some cases, this is the result of a previous injury, but usually, it occurs without a known cause. Arthritis eventually wears away the normal cartilage covering the surface of the joint causing the bone underneath to be damaged. This causes pain and stiffness in the joint, which can interfere with normal activities. If only part of your knee is damaged by arthritis, you can have a unicompartmental knee replacement instead of a total knee replacement.
A knee replacement is a surgery that replaces damaged parts of the knee with artificial components (prosthesis) to relieve pain and restore function. It can be total or partial, depending on the extent of the damage. The procedure usually takes 60–90 minutes.
Modern knee implants are designed to be durable. Studies indicate that approximately 82% of total knee replacements remain functional after 25 years, especially when properly cared for and not subjected to excessive strain .
The goal is to achieve the best functional and pain-free joint without a deformity.
Non-Surgical treatments include over-the-counter medication , exercise and physiotherapy and supportive devices , steroid injections and lifestyle changes. If these measures become ineffective , surgical options like knee replacement may be considered.
Arthritis of the knee usually, though not always, worsens over time. Arthritis is not life-threatening in itself, but it can be disabling. Symptoms of arthritis can worsen, particularly when the weather is cold.
A variety of anaesthetic techniques are possible. Your anaesthetist will discuss the options with you and recommend the best form of anaesthesia for you. You may also have injections of local anaesthetic to reduce the pain after surgery. You may be given antibiotics during the operation to reduce the risk of infection. The surgical incision is on the front of your knee. The final decision, taken in theatre, will determine whether your knee is suitable for a unicompartmental replacement. If there is damage to other parts of your knee, you may require a total knee replacement. Your surgeon will remove the damaged joint surfaces. These will then be replaced with an artificial knee joint made of metal, plastic or ceramic, or a combination of these materials.The knee replacement is attached to the bone, using acrylic cement or special coatings on the replacement pieces that bond directly to the bone. At the end of the operation, the skin is closed with clips.
After surgery, you’ll receive pain relief, antibiotics to prevent infection, and medication or stockings to reduce the risk of blood clots. You’ll be encouraged to move your feet and ankles right away, and physiotherapy usually begins the day after surgery. This helps improve knee movement and strengthen your leg. Hospital stays typically range from 1 to 10 days, depending on your recovery. A physiotherapist will guide your rehab and provide exercises to continue at home.
It is important to advise your surgeon about all of the medication you take and to follow the advice given about taking your medication before and after the operation. In some instances you may need to discontinue some medicine, while you may need to change the way you are taking other medicine. If you are diabetic, it is very important that your condition is controlled around the time of your operation. Follow your surgeon’s advice about when to take your medication before your operation.
Recovery takes time. You may feel tired at first, and swelling can last up to six months. Most people stop using crutches within 3–6 weeks and can return to work around 6 weeks after surgery, depending on their job. You can usually drive again in 3–6 weeks, once you can safely control the car. Full recovery can take up to two years, and it’s best to avoid high-impact sports or activities that could stress your new knee.
Stop smoking several weeks before surgery to lower your risk of complications and improve healing. Maintaining a healthy weight also helps reduce surgical risks. Regular exercise can boost your recovery and overall health, but check with your GP or healthcare team before starting any new routine.
Continue your prescribed exercises for at least three months to regain full range of motion, and use your crutches for 3 to 6 weeks after surgery. Maintain a healthy weight to reduce strain on your new knee, and contact your doctor immediately if you develop any infection, as prompt treatment is important. Avoid forcing knee movements, sitting with crossed legs for six weeks, or placing a pillow under your knee while sleeping, as this can lead to a permanent bend. When walking, avoid twisting your knee—take small steps instead—and do not kneel on your operated knee until your doctor gives you the go-ahead.
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