Medical technology innovation is revolutionising the manner in which we conduct joint replacement surgery. For Australian knee trouble sufferers, partial knee replacement emerges as a less traumatic option compared to total knee replacement. But what is it, and how is technology enhancing its success? This blog tells in more detail about the operation and the innovations driving its success.
What is a Partial Knee Replacement?
Partial knee replacement, as the name suggests, is surgery to repair damage in just one [art of the knee. Unlike total knee replacement, where both sides of the joint are replaced, partial knee replacement only replaces the damaged portion, with more natural bone and ligaments remaining intact.
This advanced treatment for partial knee replacement is best suited for those patients where arthritis or joint damage is confined to one area of the knee. Advantages include shorter recovery times, less pain, and more natural post-operative motion of the knee. Appropriate examination by an orthopaedic surgeon should be done to determine whether partial replacement is best suited in a particular patient.
The Latest Technological Advances
The field of partial knee replacement has seen tremendous advancements in recent years, paving the way for better results and enhanced patient comfort.
New Materials for Comfort and Longevity
One of the biggest issues with knee replacement procedures is ensuring that the implants remain healthy for as long a period as possible. Highly cross-linked polyethylene and oxidised zirconium, which are resistant to wear, are being used today to make the implants. Such implants aim to minimise wear and tear as well as yield greater longevity combined with enhanced overall performance of the substituted knee. For more youthful and healthy patients, that means less concerning with respect to revision surgery preoperatively.
Advanced Surgical Techniques
Even less invasive procedures are giving surgeons greater accuracy and patients faster recovery. Imaging technology, such as 3D pre-surgical mapping, allows surgeons to map out every detail of the operation before they ever make an incision. This reduces the likelihood of complications and improves alignment accuracy, giving patients a more stable, natural knee after surgery.
The Role of Robotics in Surgery
Robot-assisted surgery is also a revolutionary step in partial knee replacement. Robots like the Mako® robotic-arm aid the surgeon by translating the knee anatomy into digital data in real time and permitting millimetre-level precision during surgery. This personalised approach minimises the removal of healthy tissue and offers a perfect implant fit, both of which are important for ultimate success. Robot-assisted surgery also eliminates surgical mistakes, although rare, and leads to quicker recovery and less pain after surgery.
An Educated Choice
Thanks to all these technologies, partial knee replacement is now a highly effective choice for knee patients. Shorter recovery times, better materials, and more precise operation all contribute to better patient outcomes.
If you’re having a partial knee replacement performed, or if you just want to know what your options are, be honest with your orthopaedic surgeon. They can then take you through the technology available today and discuss what will be best for your individual needs.
Medicine today is continuing to evolve, and these advances are bridging the gap between comfort and need, and are helping Australians to regain mobility and lead an active life with increased confidence.
