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Unicompartmental knee arthroplasty


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After the Procedure

Most patients go home the day after surgery. You can put your full weight on your knee right away. There is usually less rehabilitation or physical therapy needed compared to total knee replacement.

After surgery, you will be encouraged to do as much as you can for yourself. This includes going to the bathroom or taking walks in the hallways, always with someone helping you.

Most people do not need a short stay in a rehabilitation center after they leave the hospital and before they go home.

Most patients have a fast recovery and have much less pain than they did before surgery.


Outlook (Prognosis)

Many patients are able to walk without a cane or walker by 1 - 2 weeks after surgery. You will need physical therapy for 4 to 6 months.

Most forms of exercise are acceptable after surgery, including walking, swimming, and biking. However, you should avoid high-impact activities such as jogging.



Review Date: 12/20/2010
Reviewed By: C. Benjamin Ma, MD, Assistant Professor, Chief, Sports Medicine and Shoulder Service, UCSF Department of Orthopaedic Surgery. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org).




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