Knee Replacement Without a Meniscus: When is it Necessary?

The decision of whether or not to undergo total knee replacement surgery is based on a variety of factors, including:

- The severity of your knee pain and stiffness.

- The extent of damage to the meniscus and other structures in your knee.

- The impact of knee pain on your quality of life.

- Your age, overall health, and activity level.

- The potential risks and benefits of surgery.

If you are experiencing severe knee pain and stiffness, and have no meniscus left in your knee, you may be a good candidate for partial or total knee replacement surgery. Partial knee replacement, or unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA), involves replacing only the damaged portion of the knee joint, while total knee replacement, or total knee arthroplasty (TKA), involves replacing the entire knee joint.

Ultimately, the decision of which surgery is right for you is a complex one that should be made in consultation with your doctor. Your surgeon can evaluate your individual knee anatomy, and overall needs, and help you understand the risks and benefits of each type of surgery.