JL Prudhon, F Steffann, R Verdier (Lyon)
Objective:
Choosing the appropriate type of knee prosthesis depends on aetiology and complications associated with the implant. Unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) is indicated in moderate deformity without frontal or sagital instability. Three kinds of UKA can be distinguished: i) UKA with cemented full-polyethylene tibial component, ii) with metal-backed tibial component associated to fixed bearing or to iii) mobile bearing. Fixation of the metal component may be cemented or cementless. UKA is an interesting alternative to total knee prosthesis as it is potentially associated with less frequent complications and more rapid recovery. The aim of this study was to assess reliability of the GALICA UKA, a cemented full-polyethylene tibial component UKA.
Method:
We performed a retrospective study on 93 consecutive unicompartmental knee arthroplasties in 89 patients. Main outcome criterion was survival probability according to Kaplan-Meier method with revision requiring implant change as endpoint. HSS score and patient’s satisfaction were the secondary outcome criteria.
Results:
Aetiologies were primary unicompartmental arthrosis (81.6%), osteonecrosis (13.0%), chondrocalcinosis (3.4%), secondary unicompartmental arthrosis (2.0%). At index surgery, mean age was 71.5 year with 63.2% of women. At 9-year follow-up, survival probability was 94.8% confidence interval[84.0-98.4], HSS score improved significantly (from 53.4 points preoperatively to 88.4 points, p < 0.001) and 94% of patients were satisfied or very satisfied. Conclusion:
Given the results, GALICA UKA is a reliable option, compared to total knee replacement prosthesis, in the treatment of selected unicompartmental diseases.