[Single compartment Oxford knee prosthesis]

From 1988 to 1992, we implanted 30 Oxford single compartment prostheses. Follow-up was sufficient for study in 27 cases. The Oxford single compartment prosthesis is original because the height of the meniscal component varies with mobility during flexion-extension. This single compartment prosthesis requires a rigorous technique on the basis of well respected fundamental principles. The opposite femorotibial compartment must be untouched, otherwise a slight deviation of the axis may occur. Mobility must be satisfactory and the anterior cruciate ligament must not be injured. In our series, we obtained the same results as published in the literature, particularly those reported by Goodfellow who advocates its use. Results were satisfactory in 89% of the patients. There was an extraordinary improvement in pain symptomatology. There was little improvement in mobility. Overcorrection must be absolutely avoided because of the risk of destroying the opposite compartment. Besides the classical complications which include thrombophlebitis and retarded scar formation, we noted 3 luxations of the meniscus, 2 involving the medial meniscus and 1 the lateral meniscus. In 2 cases we had to change the meniscus (once under general anaesthesia) and in 1 cases had to reoperate to install a total prosthesis. The Oxford single compartment knee prosthesis is an important implant which has its place between osteotomy and a total prosthesis, when used according to rigorous technique. There is nevertheless the risk of meniscal luxation with this type of prosthesis.