SLIDEPROSTHESIS AND PARTIAL JOINT REPLACEMENT

The partial joint replacement of the knee joint is possible in all areas of the joint, but is most commonly performed on the inner side of the knee joint and colloquially often referred to as slide prosthesis called. Similar to the full prosthesis, the defective cartilage is also replaced here by a new surface and a plastic inlay is inserted in between. For a partial prosthesis, all ligament structures, especially the cruciate ligaments, must be largely intact.


Sled prosthesis on the knee joint: Partial joint replacement by the knee specialist

What is a sled prosthesis?

The sled prosthesis, also known as unicondylar joint replacement, is a special form of knee partial endoprosthesis. It is used when osteoarthritis (joint wear) of the knee joint is limited to a single compartment, the so‑called compartment. In contrast to the total endoprosthesis (knee‑TEP), which replaces the entire joint, the sled prosthesis enables a targeted replacement only of the damaged joint part. This leaves the healthy portions of the knee joint, including the important cruciate ligaments, completely intact.

This minimally invasive approach offers numerous advantages, such as faster recovery, reduced blood loss, and a more natürlicheres joint feeling after the surgery. As an experienced knee specialist Prof. Dr. med. Kutzner places größten emphasis on für each patient to find the most individually best and most gentle treatment method.

When is a sledge prosthesis useful?

The decision for a sled prosthesis is made by your treating knee specialist after a comprehensive diagnostic Abklärung. The following criteria are für the use of a partial joint replacement crucial:

  • Localized osteoarthritis: The cartilage damage is limited to the inner (medial) or, less commonly, the äußeren (lateral) part of the knee joint.
  • Intact ligaments: In particular, the cruciate and collateral ligaments must be stable and functional to provide the joint with the necessary stability.
  • No severe deformities: A pronounced X- or O-leg deformity may be a contraindication.
  • Good general condition: The patient should have sufficient bone quality and no inflammatory joint diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis.

Prof. Dr. Kutzner and his team at ENDOPROTHETICUM Rhein-Main in Mainz carefully check whether you are a suitable candidate for this joint-preserving surgical method.

The surgical procedure and postoperative care

The surgery performed by a knee specialist

The procedure is usually performed minimally invasively over a small skin incision. The surgeon removes the damaged cartilage and a small portion of the underlying bone. Subsequently, the components of sled prosthesis are precisely fitted onto the femur and the shinbone. A sliding surface made of highly cross‑linked polyethylene replaces the worn meniscus and enables a low‑friction movement.

Rehabilitation after the procedure

Thanks to the gentle procedure, rapid mobilization is possible. Already on the day of the operation, the first steps can be taken under physiotherapeutic guidance. The hospital stay is usually short. A subsequent rehabilitation measure supports the healing process and helps to restore full mobility and strength in the knee joint. The aim is a quick return to an active everyday life without pain.

Your orthopedic specialist practice in Mainz

At ENDOPROTHETICUM Rhein-Main, Prof. Dr. med. Karl Philipp Kutzner offers you a distinguished knee specialist at your disposal. Based on state-of-the-art diagnostics and many years of experience, we develop a tailor-made treatment concept for you. Feel free to contact us for comprehensive advice on the topic sled prosthesis and joint replacement.

PROF. KUTZNER: YOUR KNEE SPECIALIST WITH SPECIAL EXPERTISE IN SLED PROSTHESES

Sled prosthesis on the knee: Targeted partial joint replacement for more mobility

In ENDOPROTHETICUM Rhein-Main, your orthopedic specialist practice in Mainz, we offer state-of-the-art treatment methods for knee osteoarthritis. Under the leadership of Prof. Dr. med. Karl Philipp Kutzner, a renowned hip and knee specialist, we focus on joint-preserving and minimally invasive procedures. A particularly effective solution for isolated osteoarthritis is the Schlittenprothese, a proven partial joint replacement that largely maintains the natural joint function.

What is a sledge prosthesis and when is it useful?

The sled prosthesis, also called a unicondyläral joint replacement, is a special form of knee joint replacement. Unlike a total endoprosthesis (knee-TEP) it replaces only the damaged part of the knee joint, usually on the inner side (medial) or less commonly on the outer side (lateral). This targeted Partial joint replacement is ideal when the osteoarthritis is limited to only one of the three knee joint sections and the cruciate ligaments as well as the cartilage in the other areas are intact.

Benefits of partial joint replacement

  • Preservation of natural biomechanics: Since healthy joint parts and the cruciate ligaments are preserved, the knee often feels more natural after the operation.
  • Minimally invasive procedure: The procedure is gentler, leading to a smaller scar, less pain, and a faster recovery.
  • Faster rehabilitation: Patients receiving a sliding prosthesis are generally able to become mobile again more quickly and can return to their daily life sooner.
  • High patient satisfaction: Targeted treatment of the problem leads to excellent functional results and high patient satisfaction.

The process: From diagnosis to surgery in Mainz

At the beginning there is always comprehensive diagnostics in our practice in the Ärztehaus in Mainz. Prof. Dr. Kutzner carefully checks whether a sled prosthesis represents the best possible option for you. Based on X‑ray images and a clinical examination, the condition of your knee joint is evaluated precisely. If the decision is made for a partial joint replacement, we plan the procedure precisely to ensure an optimal result. Our expertise as an orthopedic specialist practice for joint replacement guarantees you treatment at the highest medical level.

Your specialists for joint replacement in the Rhine-Main region

The ENDOPROTHETICUM Rhein-Main under the direction of Prof. Dr. med. Karl Philipp Kutzner is your leading address for hip and knee arthroplasty. As an experienced orthopedic surgeon and specialist for joint-preserving operations, we offer you the latest techniques, such as the use of sled prostheses. Trust in our expertise and our commitment to your health and quality of life.

Please contact us for individual advice and find out if partial joint replacement is the right solution for your knee complaints.