Knee resurfacing, also known as partial knee resurfacing or unicompartmental knee resurfacing, is a surgical procedure designed to treat specific areas of damage or degeneration within the knee joint. Unlike total knee replacement, which involves replacing the entire knee joint with an artificial implant, knee resurfacing focuses on preserving as much of the healthy joint tissue as possible.
The knee joint is divided into three compartments: the medial (inner), lateral (outer), and patellofemoral (front) compartments. In cases where only one knee compartment is affected by osteoarthritis or other degenerative conditions, knee resurfacing can be considered an alternative to total knee replacement.
During knee resurfacing surgery, the damaged cartilage and a thin layer of bone in the affected compartment are removed, and a metal implant is placed on the surface of the remaining bone. The metal implant mimics the natural shape of the joint and is designed to resurface the damaged area, providing a smooth and functional joint surface.
Knee resurfacing offers several potential advantages over total knee replacement:
However, not all patients are suitable candidates for knee resurfacing. The procedure is generally considered appropriate for patients with localized cartilage damage or early-stage osteoarthritis confined to one compartment of the knee. A thorough evaluation by an orthopedic surgeon is essential to determine whether knee resurfacing is a suitable option based on factors such as the extent of damage, patient's age, activity level, and overall health.
It's important to note that medical practices and technologies can evolve over time, so it's recommended to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for the most up-to-date and accurate information about knee resurfacing or any other medical procedure.
