At SBF Sports & Hand Centre in Singapore, our dedicated specialists, including Dr KC Ang, Dr Sean Leo, and Dr Bryan Tan, are experienced Knee Surgeons in treating knee conditions and injuries. One of the most advanced treatment options we offer is Unicondylar Knee Replacement Surgery. This surgical approach addresses a broad range of conditions that can result in knee joint damage.
The Journey of a Damaged Knee: From Pain to Renewed Mobility
A plethora of diseases and conditions can damage the knee joint, with arthritis being one of the most prevalent causes. In severe cases, arthritis can incapacitate the knee joint entirely, leading to intense pain and compromised mobility.
When confronted with such debilitating knee conditions, medications and arthroscopic repair surgery often form the initial lines of treatment. However, when these options fail to provide relief, a more comprehensive approach may become necessary, like a total or unicondylar knee replacement surgery.
An Effective Solution for Damaged Knees
The core goal of Unicondylar Knee Surgery is to alleviate the pain and restore the functional ability of the knee joint, empowering patients to regain their stride with renewed confidence.
Diagnostic imaging tests, such as X-rays, play a crucial role in determining the extent of the joint damage. A total knee replacement surgery is recommended if the entire joint is damaged. Conversely, if only one condyle of the knee is compromised, a half-knee replacement surgery, also known as unicondylar knee replacement surgery, is the preferred course of action.
Inside a Unicondylar Knee Replacement Surgery: A Step Towards Renewed Mobility
This Knee Replacement Surgery typically involves the use of general anaesthesia and may be conducted as an open surgery or a minimally invasive procedure. While traditional open surgery is still widely used, minimally invasive surgery often yields a more favourable prognosis.
During the procedure, the damaged sections of the affected condyle, including the compromised tissue and cartilage, are surgically removed. The removed half of the knee is then replaced with an implant composed of a metal and plastic (polyethene) compound. The metal portion, typically made of titanium, stainless steel, or certain alloys of chrome and cobalt, forms the central piece, fitting perfectly within the polyethene cover.
The Road to Recovery: Life After Surgery
Unicondylar Surgery offers a more rapid recovery timeframe than total knee replacement surgery. Patients can typically resume their day-to-day activities with appropriate post-operative care and dedicated physiotherapy within a few weeks.
Our SBF Sports & Hand Centre team in Singapore is committed to providing a comprehensive spectrum of knee treatments, ranging from managing conditions like ACL and meniscal tears to executing advanced procedures like cartilage repair and knee surgery. Our doctors’ expertise is leveraged to ensure that each patient receives personalized care that helps them regain mobility and live a pain-free life.
You may contact us at +65 6282 2611 or enquiry@sbfsportshand.com.sg for a consultation.
