Knee osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis develops when the smooth cartilage covering the knee surfaces gradually wears down. The joint can become painful, stiff, swollen and less able to straighten or bend. Symptoms may affect walking, stairs, sleep, work and recreation.

Early treatment usually includes exercise, strengthening, weight management where appropriate, pain relief, activity changes and sometimes an injection. When arthritis causes severe ongoing limitation despite suitable non-surgical treatment, knee replacement may be considered.

A total knee replacement resurfaces all affected parts of the joint. A unicompartmental, or partial, knee replacement treats only one damaged compartment when the remaining knee is healthy and the ligaments are suitable. Robotic technology can assist with detailed planning and accurate positioning during either operation.