Half Knee Prosthesis

The treatment of a half knee prosthesis, also known as a unicompartmental knee replacement or partial knee replacement, is a surgical procedure performed by our orthopedic surgeon to replace only one compartment of the knee joint with an artificial implant. Here is a description of the typical treatment process:

1. Preoperative Assessment: The orthopedic surgeon evaluates the patient’s medical history, conducts a physical examination, and may order imaging tests such as X-rays or MRIs. This assessment helps determine if the patient is a suitable candidate for a half knee prosthesis and whether the damage is limited to a specific compartment of the knee.
2. Anesthesia: Prior to the surgery, the patient is typically given anesthesia, which can be general anesthesia (where the patient is unconscious) or regional anesthesia (such as epidural or spinal anesthesia, where the lower body is numbed). The choice of anesthesia depends on various factors and is discussed between the patient and the anesthesiologist.
3. Incision: Once the patient is under anesthesia, the orthopedic surgeon makes a smaller incision over the affected compartment of the knee joint. The length and location of the incision may vary depending on the surgeon’s approach and the patient’s specific condition.
4. Reshaping and Preparation: The damaged portion of the knee joint, typically either the medial (inner) or lateral (outer) compartment, is carefully removed using specialized surgical instruments. The surgeon reshapes the remaining bone surfaces to prepare them for the artificial implant.
5. Implant Placement: The orthopedic surgeon attaches the artificial component, which consists of a metal or ceramic femoral component and a metal or plastic tibial component. These components can be fixed in place using bone cement or press-fit techniques, depending on the specific type of prosthesis used. In some cases, a plastic spacer may also be placed between the two components to facilitate smooth movement.
6. Wound Closure: Once the implant is in place, the surgeon carefully closes the incision using sutures or staples. Sterile dressings are applied to protect the wound.
7. Postoperative Care: After the surgery, the patient is monitored in a recovery area and may be given pain medications and antibiotics. Physical therapy begins soon after the surgery to help regain mobility, strengthen the muscles around the knee, and promote healing.
8. Rehabilitation and Recovery: The patient undergoes a comprehensive rehabilitation program, including exercises, walking aids, and gradually increasing activities to regain strength, flexibility, and function in the knee joint. The duration of rehabilitation varies for each patient but typically involves several weeks or months.
9. Follow-Up Visits: The orthopedic surgeon schedules regular follow-up visits to monitor the patient’s progress, assess the healing process, and make any necessary adjustments to the rehabilitation program. These visits also allow for addressing any concerns or complications that may arise.

Half knee replacement surgery aims to relieve pain, restore joint function, and improve the patient’s quality of life while preserving the healthy portions of the knee joint. It is important to note that while this description provides a general overview, the details of the procedure may vary based on the surgeon’s preferences, the patient’s specific condition, and advancements in surgical techniques and implant designs. Therefore, it is essential to consult with our experienced orthopedic surgeon who can provide personalized guidance and treatment based on an individual’s specific needs.