What should you know about medial unicompartmental knee replacement?

The knee has inner, outer and kneecap compartments. A medial unicompartmental replacement addresses arthritis concentrated in the inner compartment. The surgeon removes damaged surfaces and places metal and polyethylene components that allow the joint surfaces to move against one another. This approach is considered only when the disease pattern, ligament function, movement and overall knee condition fit the operation. Knee osteoarthritis affecting other compartments, significant stiffness or ligament instability may change the recommendation.

The implant may include cobalt-chrome alloy and highly cross-linked polyethylene. Your surgeon can explain why particular materials and fixation are suitable for your anatomy and activity goals.

Before surgery, review medicines, dental concerns, skin problems and other conditions with the team. Arrange help, safe walking space and transport for the early recovery period. Afterward, physiotherapy usually focuses on swelling control, knee movement, quadriceps strength, gait and safe stair practice. Follow wound-care and weight-bearing instructions, and build activity gradually rather than using pain as the only guide. A partial replacement is different from a total replacement, so ask how the choice affects rehabilitation and future options.

Contact the surgical team promptly for increasing wound redness, drainage, fever, calf swelling or pain, or a sudden decline in walking ability. Urgent assessment is needed for chest pain, breathlessness, faintness, a cold foot, new weakness or severe pain after a fall. During recovery, persistent locking, giving way or swelling that prevents exercises also deserves review.

Ask whether arthritis is confined to the medial compartment, whether the ligaments and kneecap joint are suitable, and what implant materials will be used. Discuss expected hospital arrangements, mobility aids, driving and work restrictions, physiotherapy goals, warning signs, and what would happen if arthritis later affects another compartment.