PARTIAL KNEE REPLACEMENT AND PARTIAL JOINT REPLACEMENT

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

What is a sled prosthesis?

The sledge prosthesis, also known as unicompartmental knee replacement, is a special form of partial knee replacement. It is used when the osteoarthritis (joint wear) of the knee joint is limited to a single compartment. Unlike total knee replacement (TKR), in which the entire joint is replaced, the sledge prosthesis allows for a targeted replacement of only the damaged joint part. As a result, the healthy parts of the knee joint, including the important cruciate ligaments, are fully preserved.

This minimally invasive approach offers numerous benefits, such as faster recovery, less blood loss and a more natural joint feeling after surgery. As an experienced knee specialist Prof. Dr. med. Kutzner places great emphasis on finding the best and most gentle treatment method for each patient.

When is a sledge prosthesis useful?

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

• Localized arthrosis: The cartilage damage is limited to the inner (medial) or less frequently the outer (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 malalignments: A pronounced X- or O-leg malalignment can be a contraindication.
• Good general health: The patient should have adequate 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 intervention is usually performed minimally invasively through a small incision. The surgeon removes the damaged cartilage and a small part of the underlying bone. Then the components of the partial knee replacement are precisely anchored on the femur and tibia. A sliding surface made of highly cross-linked polyethylene replaces the worn-out meniscus and enables 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, you have access to Prof. Dr. med. Karl Philipp Kutzner, a renowned knee specialist . Based on state-of-the-art diagnostics and many years of experience, we develop a tailored treatment concept for you. Please feel free to contact us for comprehensive advice on the topic of sledge prosthesis and joint replacement.

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

In the ENDOPROTHETICUM Rhein-Main, your orthopedic specialist practice in Mainz, we offer the latest treatment methods for knee arthrosis. Under the direction of Prof. Dr. med. Karl Philipp Kutzner, a renowned hip and knee specialist, we focus on joint-preserving and minimally invasive interventions. A particularly effective solution for isolated arthrosis is the sledge prosthesis, a proven partial joint replacement that largely preserves the natural joint function.

What is a sledge prosthesis and when is it useful?

The sled prosthesis, also known as unicondylar knee replacement, is a special form of knee replacement. Unlike a total knee replacement (TKR), it only replaces the damaged part of the knee joint, usually on the inner side (medial) or less frequently on the outer side (lateral). This targeted partial joint replacement is ideal when the osteoarthritis is limited to only one of the three joint compartments of the knee and the cruciate ligaments and cartilage in the other areas are intact.

Benefits of partial joint replacement

• Preservation of natural biomechanics: Since healthy joint parts and cruciate ligaments are preserved, the knee often feels more natural after surgery.
• Minimally invasive procedure: The procedure is gentler, resulting in a smaller scar, less pain and a faster recovery.
• Faster Rehabilitation: Patients who receive a sled prosthesis are usually mobile again more quickly and can return to their daily routine earlier.
• High patient satisfaction: The targeted treatment of the problem leads to excellent functional results and high patient satisfaction.

The process: From diagnosis to surgery in Mainz

The process always begins with a comprehensive diagnosis in our practice at the medical center in Mainz. Prof. Dr. Kutzner carefully examines whether a partial knee replacement is the best possible option for you. Based on X-rays and a clinical examination, the condition of your knee joint is precisely assessed. If the decision is made to proceed with a partial joint replacement, we plan the procedure precisely to ensure an optimal outcome. Our expertise as a specialized orthopedic 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.