Functional Outcomes and Complication Rates of Unicompartmental vs Total Knee Arthroplasty: Comparative Analysis

Abstract

Background: Common knee osteoarthritis operations include Unicompartmental Knee arthroplasty (UKA) and Total knee arthroplasty (TKA). To evaluate UKA and TKA safety and efficacy, this study analyses functional outcomes and complications.

Methods: Nalanda Medical College & Hospital used July 2023–May 2024 study data. UKA and TKA was scheduled for 50 patients each group. The Oxford Knee Score (OKS), the Knee Society Score (KSS), pain, and activity levels were evaluated before and after surgery.

Results: Over 12 months post-surgery, UKA and TKA showed significant improvements in functional outcomes (p < 0.001). UKA and TKA functional scores were not substantially different at any follow-up (p > 0.05). Infection (8% UKA, 6% TKA), reoperation (12% UKA, 10% TKA), prosthesis loosening (4% UKA, 2% TKA), and deep vein thrombosis (2% UKA, 4% TKA) rates were not significantly different between groups (p > 0.05).

Conclusion: UKA and TKA have similar 12-month complications and functional results. Consider patient features and long-term goals while choosing UKA or TKA. These findings need to be confirmed by bigger samples and longer follow-up to improve clinical decision-making.