In patients with only limited knee arthritis, surgeons may elect to perform a
unicompartmental (partial) knee replacement. Unlike total knee replacement
involving removal of all the knee joint surfaces, a unicompartmental knee
replacement replaces only one side of the knee joint. Knee osteoarthritis
usually occurs first in the medial (inside) compartment as this side of the knee
bears most of the weight. In knees that are otherwise healthy, a
unicompartmental approach allows the outer compartment and all ligaments to
remain intact. By retaining all of the undamaged parts, the joint may bend
better and function more naturally.
The Repicci II - The First Minimally Invasive Knee Replacement Procedure
Developed in conjunction with John Repicci, MD, the Repicci II is a partial
knee replacement designed to remove as little bone from the knee as possible.
The entire surgery is performed through a very small incision, with minimal
trauma to surrounding soft tissue. As a result, Dr. Repicci has reported that
many patients leave the hospital on the day of, or the day after surgery, and
are back to work within two weeks.1 The Repicci approach has demonstrated
excellent results, with a 96% success rate after 5-8 years.
The Oxford Unicompartmental Knee System - Leading surgeons in Oxford, England
along with engineers at Biomet, developed the Oxford Unicompartmental Knee
System. It's the only FDA-approved, free-floating meniscal partial knee system
available in the United States and has been utilized throughout Europe for more
than two decades.
In a healthy knee, the meniscus serves as a shock absorber between the ends of
the bones. The Oxford is the first partial implant with an artificial meniscal
bearing designed to glide freely throughout the knee's range of motion, more
closely replicating normal movement. The free-floating nature of the device also
improves durability of the implant.
Published long-term clinical results on the Oxford Knee demonstrated a 98%
success rate at 10 years, equaling the results of the most successful total knee
replacements.3 Studies also show most patients experience a rapid recovery and
more natural joint function.
Web design by Patricia Walter
Copyright Knees For You Guide to Knee Replacement 12/18/2006
Mission Statement -
Knees for You Guide to Knee Replacement
is a patient to patient guide to knee replacement. It does not provide medical
advice. It is designed to support, not to replace, the relationship between
patient and clinician.
Advertising - Revenue from this site is derived
from commercial advertising and individual donations. Any
advertisement is distinguished by the word "advertisement"
Privacy - Knees for You Guide to Knee Replacement does not share email
addresses or personal information with any group or organization.
Content - Knees for You Guide to Knee Replacement is not controlled or influenced by any
medical companies, doctors or hospitals.
All content is controlled by Patricia Walter -
Joint Health Sites LLC