In cases where only one side of the knee joint is damaged unicondylar knee prosthesis It is used. This particular prosthesis replaces only the affected part while preserving the intact part.
Thus, it helps maintain natural knee movement. It helps patients regain their functions while reducing pain. It requires more minimal surgery than a full knee replacement. Therefore, it offers a less invasive treatment option in suitable patients.
In Which Situations Is Unicondylar Knee Prosthesis Applied?
If the arthritis in the knee joint is only on one side, then it may be an option. As long as the condyles on the other side are healthy, only the damaged side may need to be prosthetic. If the damage is limited to cartilage only and there is no serious deformity or damage to the bones, it may be appropriate. In cases where only one side is damaged after trauma, this type of prosthesis can be used.
For younger and more active patients, it may be preferred over a total knee replacement. It requires less bone cutting and can often result in a faster healing process. Unicondylar knee prosthesisIt is applied by a surgeon depending on the patient's needs. Every patient is different, and the orthopedic surgeon's recommendations are important to determine which type of prosthesis is suitable.
Things to Consider After Unicondylar Knee Prosthesis
Strictly follow the instructions given by your doctor after the surgery. Take medications on time and correctly. If you are referred to a rehabilitation specialist, attend sessions regularly. Increase your muscle strength and flexibility by participating in a physical therapy and rehabilitation program. However, avoid overly strenuous exercise and follow recommended limits. Keep wounds in the surgical area clean and dry. Perform wound care as recommended and note the date of removal of any stitches or clips.
Take prescribed medications regularly to control pain after surgery. If you notice an abnormal increase in pain or swelling, contact your doctor immediately. Inform your doctor if there is any increase in leg swelling or pain in the post-operative period. Symptoms may indicate that blood clots may be forming. To speed up your recovery process, follow a balanced diet plan. You can take vitamin and mineral supplements in accordance with the recommendations of your doctor or dietitian.
Use crutches or other supportive devices for the recommended time. It will help you improve your walking ability. Be careful when walking or moving. To avoid falls, take precautions to reduce the risk of falls in your home. Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can negatively affect the healing process. Avoid or quit harmful habits.
It is important to regularly attend follow-up appointments specified by your doctor. Appointments are necessary to evaluate the condition of your prosthesis and your healing process. Unicondylar knee prosthesis surgery The healing process may vary depending on the person's age and health condition. Therefore, it is most important to stick to your doctor's recommendations and instructions. If you experience any problems in the postoperative period, you should consult your doctor immediately.
Unicondylar Knee Prosthesis Recovery Process
Hospital stay is usually limited to a few days. In this process, the patient's pain control is provided and movement exercises are taught by physiotherapists. After being discharged from surgery, the recovery process begins at home. Pain, swelling and bruising begin to decrease.
You may need to regularly use painkillers recommended by your doctor. Exercise programs given by physiotherapists help regain muscle strength. The skills of putting weight on the knee joint and walking are regained at this stage.
You can slowly start weight-bearing within the time period recommended by your doctor. It marks your return to walking and normal daily activities. In the following weeks, work is done to increase the range of motion of the knee. It helps you regain flexibility. The postoperative recovery process may vary depending on the person's age, health condition and physical activity level. However, you can usually return to normal daily activities within a few months.
Unicondylar knee prosthesis healing processis associated with following post-surgical instructions. It is important to attend physiotherapy regularly and undergo a proper rehabilitation process. It is important to comply with the recommendations and instructions in the post-surgical period. The healing process may vary from person to person. It would be best to follow your doctor's specific recommendations.
