Partial “Unicompartmental” Knee Replacement (UKA)

Understanding Partial Knee Replacement

Knee replacement surgery is a procedure designed to alleviate the pain from severely arthritic conditions of the knee.

The knee is composed of three compartments, the inner or “medial” compartment, the outer or “lateral” compartment, and the knee cap or “patellofemoral” compartment. A “partial” knee replacement is simply resurfacing of one of the three compartments rather than all of them at the same time. In some patients, only one compartment has been affected by arthritis. In these situations, the affected compartment can be resurfaced leaving the other compartments alone. Partial knee replacement is also called “Unicompartmental” replacement (UKA).

A Leading Treatment

MAKOplasty® Robotic-Assisted Surgery is a leading minimally invasive partial knee replacement procedure. By selectively targeting the portion of the knee that has been damaged by osteoarthritis, MAKOplasty® can resurface the damaged area without compromising the healthy bone and tissue surrounding it. Positive outcomes include a smaller incision and a faster, less painful recovery than traditional joint replacement surgery. As a knee arthroplasty procedure, MAKOplasty® is typically covered by most Medicare-approved and private health insurers.

Partial Knee Replacement Advantages

  • Smaller incision
  • Less surgical cutting and bone preparation
  • Less blood loss
  • A more “natural” feeling knee
  • Increased range of motion
  • Faster recovery
  • May be performed as outpatient (same day) surgery

Potential Disadvantages

  • Incomplete pain relief
  • Progression of arthritis in the other compartments
  • Later need for conversion to total knee replacement

Want to make an appointment?

We are now offering Telemedicine appointments (Virtual Visits). That’s right, you can now see our Orthopaedic Specialists and Pain Management Physician from the comfort of your own home via cell phone, tablet, or computer. You will sit in front of a camera where you will be able to see yourself and your Health Care Provider on the screen once your session begins. Our Telemedicine appointments are HIPPA compliant. Most insurances are now covering Telemedicine.

Phone: (707) 254-7117

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