Unicondylar arthroplasty: redefining itself

Unicondylar knee arthroplasty is in the process of redefining itself. Increasing numbers of UKAs are being performed throughout the world, with some centers claiming that approximately 30% of their patients are candidates for this procedure. Because recovery from minimally invasive UKA can be rapid with a short or even overnight hospital stay, surgeons are broadening their indications for this procedure. I have concerns toward overuse of UKA. The procedure remains technically demanding and unforgiving. Conservative patient selection is advised and the fine points of the surgical technique should be learned through a moderately invasive patella-subluxing exposure before adapting minimally invasive techniques. The key to a rapid recovery following UKA is subluxing the patella rather than dislocating and everting the quadriceps mechanism. Unicompartmental knee arthroplasty is the right operation for the right patient when performed by the right surgeon using the right surgical technique.