Unicompartmental and total knee arthroplasty.

Pain is the main indication for a total knee arthroplasty, and the choice of prosthesis should depend on the arthritic involvement of the joint. There is no substitute for early motion after the operation to regain knee motion. Unicompartmental replacement is valuable to preserve ligament and bony stock in properly selected cases. Excellent results can be expected in even elderly patients with severe arthritis if the operation is well performed.