Unicompartmental Knee Replacement Surgery Outcomes in Parkinson’s Disease

Overview

This study evaluated unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) outcomes in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD), revealing low perioperative complication rates, acceptable implant survivorship, and favorable functional outcomes. Forty-two knees in 39 PD patients were analyzed with a minimum two-year follow-up.

Background

Parkinson’s disease is a common neurodegenerative disorder characterized by motor symptoms such as bradykinesia and rigidity, predominantly affecting older adults. As life expectancy increases, the incidence of end-stage knee osteoarthritis in PD patients is expected to rise. Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) in PD patients has been associated with higher perioperative risks and poorer outcomes. UKA offers a less invasive alternative with potential benefits including faster recovery and better functional results, which may be advantageous for PD patients with isolated unicompartmental osteoarthritis.

Data Highlights

Key Findings

• UKA in PD patients demonstrated low perioperative complication rates and acceptable implant survivorship at a minimum two-year follow-up.
• Functional outcomes measured by Oxford Knee Score (OKS) and UCLA Activity Score showed favorable postoperative improvements.
• 31% of knees had prior knee surgeries, indicating UKA was feasible even in previously operated joints.
• Both medial and lateral UKA were performed using minimally invasive approaches with early mobilization protocols.
• Cementless fixation was used in a subset of medial UKAs with specific surgical techniques to reduce complications.
• Radiographic criteria and Oxford indications were strictly applied to select appropriate candidates for UKA.

Clinical Implications

UKA represents a viable surgical option for selected PD patients with isolated unicompartmental knee osteoarthritis, offering a less invasive approach with potentially lower morbidity compared to total knee arthroplasty. Careful patient selection using established radiographic and clinical criteria is essential. Early mobilization and tailored rehabilitation protocols can support favorable functional recovery in this population.

Conclusion

Unicompartmental knee arthroplasty in Parkinson’s disease patients yields low complication rates and satisfactory functional outcomes, supporting its role as an effective treatment for isolated compartmental osteoarthritis in this challenging patient group.

References

1. Author/Source/Year -- Parkinson’s disease prevalence and characteristics
2. Author/Source/Year -- UKA versus TKA outcomes in PD patients
3. Author/Source/Year -- Oxford Knee Score and activity scoring methods
4. Author/Source/Year -- Radiographic criteria for UKA indication