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Knee replacement surgery can restore movement and relieve pain to permit people with worn or damaged knee joints to resume routine activities, work and move without pain or stiffness. Like all surgery, there are risks as well as benefits. Only an orthopedic surgeon can determine if surgery is appropriate, and which type is best in a specific situation.
Partial knee replacement
Partial (or unicompartmental) knee replacement implants a replacement joint on just one of the knee's three bone-contact surfaces (inside, outside and front surfaces). Generally this is done on the inside surface, as it is the surface most likely to become worn or damaged. Partial knee replacement is only appropriate if only one joint surface is damaged.
Total knee replacement
Total knee replacement replaces the entire knee joint with a prosthesis which attaches to the tibia and femur. An FDA panel reported "Total knee replacement surgery is a safe, very successful, and relatively low-risk treatment for decreasing pain and increasing mobility in people who are not helped by nonsurgical treatments."
Cemented and cementless
Most knee replacements are cemented into place a fast-drying polymer glue. Cementless implants attach directly to the bone without cement. These joints have porous surfaces so new bone grows into the joint. Often screws are used to hold cementless joints into place until the bone has grown into the joint to provide stability.
Minimally invasive surgery
Minimally-invasive surgery may be appropriate for some patients. The smaller incision - generally a 4" to 5" incision in place of a 6" to 12" incision - minimizes damage to muscles and tendons, reduces blood loss and results in less postoperative discomfort.
Seriously overweight or obese people, patients who have had previous hip replacement surgery and some with unusual anatomy cannot have minimally-invasive surgery.
Knee navigation
Knee navigation is an advanced technology used in total knee replacements. This system assures a more precise alignment of the femur and tibia for better results. It also shortens surgery time.
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