The role of unicompartmental knee arthroplasty versus total knee arthroplasty in providing maximal performance and satisfaction.

Unicondylar knee arthroplasty (UKA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA) are both recommended for the treatment of medial compartment osteoarthritis in the varus knee. Some authors report favorable functional results and patient satisfaction from TKA on the basis of extensive, long-term success of knee arthroplasty. Others cite the arduous rehabilitation and bone loss associated with traditional knee arthroplasty, opting for UKA, especially in young, high-demand patients. This article reviews the elements of successful UKA. It emphasizes the advantages of UKA versus traditional knee arthroplasty and minimally invasive TKA.