We describe a previously unreported method of positioning to allow bilateral procedures. Fifteen patients have undergone bilateral medial unicompartmental replacements (ie 30 knees), using the minimally invasive approach, with our appropriate positioning technique. Early results in terms of complications, post-operative radiographs and Oxford knee score were noted. A comparison with groups of an age and sex-matched bilateral total knee replacement group and a group of single unicompartmental knees was also undertaken.
There were no noted complications in the operative or early post-operative periods. Review of the radiographs demonstrates 4 minimally malpositioned implants with no symptomatic correlation. In early follow, from 6 months to 2 years, there has been 1 moderate result, with a patient requiring an MUA for 1 knee. 12 of 15 patients report good or excellent post-operative results in both knees. Three patients report problems with 1 knee only. The age matched group of bilateral total knee replacements had longer hospital stays, greater blood transfusion requirements and minor post-operative complications. There were a similar number of radiographic abnormalities and 1 re-operation in the single unicompartmental group.
