Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 27, 2026

In Vitro Application of a Wireless Sensor in Flexion-Extension Gap Balance of Unicompartmental Knee Arthroplasty
Published on: May 5, 2023
Consensus Statement on Indications and Contraindications for Medial Unicompartmental Knee Arthroplasty
Keith R Berend1, Michael E Berend, David F Dalury
1Joint Implant Surgeons, Inc., New Albany, Ohio. BerendKR@joint-surgeons.com.
Insights
This study updates guidelines for medial unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA), establishing new consensus indications and contraindications based on current literature and expert surgeon experience.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Knee Arthroplasty
Background:
- Established guidelines for medial unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) are nearly 30 years old.
- Current literature and clinical practice have evolved, necessitating an update to UKA indications and contraindications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current literature on indications and contraindications for medial UKA.
- To develop an updated consensus statement on medial UKA indications and contraindications.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of current indications and contraindications for UKA.
- Survey of six experienced surgeons (performing >8,000 partial knee arthroplasties).
- Consensus-building process including discussion, proposal, modification, and final agreement.
Main Results:
- A consensus statement on primary indications and contraindications for medial UKA was developed.
- Identified previous contraindications that are no longer considered absolute.
- Provided an updated, concise review of current medial UKA indications and contraindications.
Conclusions:
- The study provides an updated, evidence-based consensus on medial UKA indications and contraindications.
- Highlights the evolution of contraindications, suggesting a broader applicability of UKA.
- Offers a valuable resource for surgeons considering medial unicompartmental knee arthroplasty.
Abstract:
Previous work, now nearly 30 years dated, is frequently cited as the "gold standard" for the indications and contraindications for medial unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA). The purpose of this article is to review current literature on the indications and contraindications to UKA and develop a consensus statement based on those data. Six surgeons with a combined experience of performing more than 8,000 partial knee arthroplasties were surveyed. Surgeons then participated in a discussion, emerging proposal, collaborative modification, and final consensus phase. The final consensus on primary indications and contraindications is presented. Notably, the authors provide consensus on previous contraindications, which are no longer considered to be contraindications. The authors provide an updated and concise review of the current indications and contraindications for medial UKA using scientifically based consensus-building methodology.
