Minimally Invasive Procedure for the M/G Uni Knee Offers Alternative
The ageing of the baby-boomer generation, the world faces a cold reality –– it might be time to slow down. But for millions of individuals, being 50+ doesn't mean a life of inactivity. A new minimally invasive procedure for knee replacements may help individuals who face osteoarthritis of the knee, allowing them to keep pace with life.
Osteoarthritis affects millions of individuals in the UK. A degenerative
joint disease, osteoarthritis is one of the oldest and most common forms of
arthritis. The disease causes the cartilage normally found in joints to
break down. This breakdown removes the buffer between bones and the
resulting bone-against-bone friction causes pain and eventual loss of
movement. Symptoms include joint pain or aching (often after exercise or
extended periods of pressure on weight-bearing joints) and limited or
eventual loss of motion.
A new procedure for the M/G Unicompartmental Knee (partial knee) has been developed to provide patients with a minimally invasive solution for osteoarthritis of the knee. Uni knee replacements are generally indicated for individuals whose arthritis affects only one side – or condyle – of the knee. Physicians today are implanting a proven prosthesis using the new MIS procedure, removing only the diseased portion of the knee.
MIS procedure
Smaller scar - uses a 50mm to 75mm incision and removes only the diseased portion of the knee
Shorter hospital stay - may be performed on an outpatient basis; hospitalization time is minimized
Faster rehab/recovery time - an estimated five-weeks for many patients, but may vary
Greater range of motion when compared to standard total
knee procedures (non-high flex) - allows for nearly full range of
motion
