Klinische und funktionelle Ergebnisse nach der Rehabilitationsphase bei minimalinvasivem unikondylärem Kniegelenksersatz

The objective of the present study was to analyze the clinical and functional outcome after minimally-invasive implantation of a Repicci-type unicompartmental sledge prosthesis. In 29 patients with primary unicompartmental knee osteoarthritis, 29 replacements of the medial compartment and four of the lateral compartment with an average follow-up of 10,1 months were performed using the minimally-invasive technique with the metal-backed and the all-polyethylene versions of the Repicci sledge prosthesis. The mean age of the patients was 66 years. Established clinical and quality of life (SF-36) scores were used to compare patients with 11 healthy age-matched individuals. Electromyography (EMG) of standardized locations was measured with the MyoSystem 2000 and analyzed with Myoresearch software. Gait analysis was performed with a six-camera motion analysis system and force platforms. Additionally the proprioception of the knee joint was analyzed. The Repicci sledge prosthesis led postoperatively to functional results that were in the range of healthy joints. Gait and balance parameters were comparable to the control group, whilst electromyographically lower amplitudes were found in the patients than the controls and in the operated legs as compared to the non-operated legs. Many parameters of quality of life and activity were comparable to age-matched healthy individuals, and quality of life was superior to total knee replacement. When implanted using a minimally-invasive technique and with suitable patient selection, the Repicci sledge led to functional results comparable to those of healthy joints and gait parameters comparable to those of healthy individuals.