Unicompartmental Knee Replacement

Considering Knee Replacement? Don’t Skip This Option.

If you’ve been told you need a knee replacement, it’s important to know that a Total Knee Replacement (TKR) is not your only choice. For many patients, a Unicompartmental Knee Replacement (UKR)—often called a “half knee replacement”—can deliver the same pain relief with significant advantages.

Why UKR Could Be Better for You

• Bone-Preserving: Unlike TKR, UKR only replaces the damaged part of your knee, leaving healthy bone intact.
• Natural Knee Feel: All your knee ligaments are preserved, so your knee feels and moves more naturally after surgery.
• Faster Recovery, Less Pain: Most patients recover in 3 weeks instead of 6, with less discomfort and quicker return to daily activities.
• Smaller Incision: No need to cut through thigh muscles, which means less trauma and faster healing.

Now with Mako Robotic-Assisted Precision

A/Prof Hazratwala now offers Mako Robotic UKR, which uses advanced robotic technology to achieve unmatched accuracy and precision in implant positioning. This means better outcomes, longer implant life, and a smoother recovery.

Is UKR Right for You?

• 90% of knee arthritis occurs on the inside of the knee.
• If you have no pain in the front (patella) or outside of the knee, and your arthritis is mild to moderate, you may be an ideal candidate.
• Patient selection is critical—not everyone qualifies, but if you do, the benefits are substantial.

Why Choose UKR Before TKR

A Total Knee Replacement removes healthy bone and ligaments, permanently changing the way your knee feels. UKR preserves these structures, giving you a more natural knee and keeping future options open. Even if other parts of the knee wear out years later (often 8–10 years), UKR can be converted to a TKR without compromise.

My Experience

With 15 years of experience, and having published and presented internationally on UKR, I specialize in this technically demanding procedure. Not all surgeons offer UKR—if yours doesn’t, seek one who does before committing to TKR.

Bottom line: Before proceeding with a Total Knee Replacement, explore whether UKR—especially with robotic assistance—is right for you. It could mean less pain, faster recovery, and a knee that feels more like your own.