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Published on: May 5, 2023
Medial unicompartmental knee replacement in the under-50s
S Parratte1, J-N A Argenson, O Pearce
1Aix-Marseille University, Marseille, France.
The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery. British Volume
|March 5, 2009
Summary
This study found that cemented unicompartmental knee replacement in patients under 50 improved function but had an 80.6% 12-year survival rate, with polyethylene wear being a significant concern.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Biomedical Engineering
- Materials Science
Background:
- Medial compartment osteoarthritis is common in younger adults.
- Unicompartmental knee replacement (UKR) is an option for focal knee arthritis.
- Long-term outcomes of UKR in patients under 50 are less understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the clinical outcomes and long-term survival of cemented unicompartmental knee replacement in patients aged 50 or younger.
- To identify factors influencing the success and failure of UKR in this specific demographic.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 35 cemented unicompartmental knee replacements in 31 patients (age <=50).
- Clinical and radiological assessment using Knee Society scores.
- Kaplan-Meier survival analysis at a mean follow-up of 9.7 years (range 5-16).
Main Results:
- Significant improvement in mean Knee Society Function Score from 54 to 89 (p < 0.0001).
- 12-year survival rate was 80.6% (revision for any reason).
- Six knees required revision, primarily due to polyethylene wear (4 cases).
Conclusions:
- Cemented unicompartmental knee replacement provides good functional outcomes in younger patients.
- Polyethylene wear is a critical concern impacting long-term survival in this patient group.
- Further research into wear-resistant bearing materials is warranted for UKR in younger populations.
