A growing number of people are opting to have
partial knee replacement surgery, surgeons have revealed.
According to a paper in the Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, many patients suffering from knee osteoarthritis are now benefiting from the procedure, which offers faster rehabilitation time and tends to preserve a more normal knee function.
Dr Todd Borus, co-author of the study and an orthopaedic surgeon in Vancouver, Washington, revealed: "A major challenge in orthopaedics is treating younger patients with knee replacements.
"With baby boomers being more active and wearing out their knees earlier, partial knee replacements are an option in treating these younger and more active patients."
However, the expert noted that partial knee replacement surgery is not suitable for all patients.
He commented: "The criteria for partial knee replacements are still relatively strict. The arthritis has to be well confined to one part of the knee. Even though the techniques and implants are improving, not everyone is a candidate."
Over nine million British people have arthritis, of which osteoarthritis is one of the most common forms.
