RecruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

Total Versus Robotic Assisted Unicompartmental Knee Replacement

This research is looking at two different types of knee replacement surgery for people with arthritis affecting only one part of their knee. One is a standard, full knee replacement carried out by a surgeon. The other is a partial knee replacement, where only the damaged part is replaced, with a robotic arm assisting the surgeon. The main goal is to find out which operation leads to better recovery and knee function in the early stages after surgery. We also want to see if the robotic method offers any cost benefits. For patients with specific knee arthritis, a partial replacement might lead to a quicker recovery, but historically, full replacements have been more durable. This study hopes to show if robotic assistance can make partial knee replacements just as successful and long-lasting, while still giving patients the benefits of a less invasive procedure.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Phase

Sponsor

NHS Lothian

Enrolment target

159

Start

26 Aug 2024

Estimated completion

31 Dec 2027

Osteo Arthritis Knee Arthritis Knee Arthropathy of Knee

What is this study about?

This study is comparing two ways to treat knee arthritis that affects only one part of your knee – usually the inside part. Imagine your knee as having three main sections; sometimes only one of these sections is worn out.

The first treatment is a standard, full knee replacement. This means replacing all parts of your knee joint with artificial ones. The second treatment is a partial knee replacement, where only the damaged section is replaced. This is done with the help of a robotic arm to guide the surgeon.

We know that partial knee replacements can sometimes lead to a quicker recovery because less of your knee is replaced. However, in the past, full knee replacements tended to last longer, meaning fewer patients needed further surgery down the line. We believe that using a robot for partial knee replacements might make them much more precise and therefore last longer. This study aims to check if robotic-assisted partial knee replacements can offer the benefits of quicker recovery without the previous concerns about needing another operation sooner when compared to a full knee replacement.

Key takeaways

Compares standard full knee replacement vs. robot-assisted partial knee replacement.
Aims to find out which surgery leads to better knee function and quicker recovery.
Specifically for arthritis affecting only one part of the knee.
You will be randomly assigned to one of the two surgery types.
Involves questionnaires and follow-up checks after surgery.
Could help improve future arthritis treatments for others.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for men and women aged between 50 and 75 years old who are planning to have a knee replacement for arthritis that affects only the inner part of their knee. You need to be generally healthy and able to follow the study instructions.

There are certain reasons why you might not be able to join. For example, if your knee arthritis is too severe, if you have other serious health problems, if you've had previous knee surgery (other than keyhole surgery), or if you are pregnant or planning to become so. We also need to make sure you can understand the study information and answer questionnaires.

Quick self-check

Are you between 50 and 75 years old?
Do you have arthritis mainly on the inside of your knee?
Are you generally healthy and able to have surgery?
Do you understand the study information and feel able to answer questions?
Are you not pregnant or planning a pregnancy during the study?
Have you not had previous major knee surgery or other serious knee problems?

This is a guide only — the research team will confirm whether you can take part.

What does participation involve?

If you join this study, you will either have a standard full knee replacement or a robotic-assisted partial knee replacement. Which one you get will be decided by chance, like flipping a coin. You will have a CT scan of your knee before the surgery. We will check on your progress and how well your knee is working at various times after your surgery by asking you to fill out questionnaires. The total length of your participation in the study will involve going through the surgery and then attending follow-up appointments and completing questionnaires as required by the study team.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study could potentially offer you the benefit of receiving a highly precise, advanced surgical technique, which might lead to a quicker recovery and good long-term results. However, like any surgery, there are always risks, such as infection, bleeding, or issues with the new knee joint itself. Your doctor will explain all potential risks in detail. You are free to withdraw from the study at any time without giving a reason, and this will not affect your usual medical care.

Locations (1)

Nicholas Clement
Edinburgh, United Kingdom· Recruiting

Common questions

What kind of arthritis is this study for?

This study is for people with arthritis that affects only the inner part of their knee, also known as medial compartment osteoarthritis.

Will I get to choose which surgery I have?

No, if you join the study, you will be randomly assigned to receive either a full knee replacement or a robotic-assisted partial knee replacement. It's like drawing lots.

How long will I be involved in the study?

You'll be involved from before your surgery, through the operation itself, and then for follow-up checks and questionnaires to see how you're recovering and how your knee is doing.

What is the main goal of the study?

The main goal is to compare how well your knee works and how you recover in the early stages after either a full knee replacement or a robotic-assisted partial knee replacement.

What is a 'robotic-assisted' surgery?

It means the surgeon uses a special robotic arm as a tool to help them place the new knee parts very precisely during your operation.

How to find out more

Nicholas D Clement, MD, PhD

nick.clement@nhslothian.scot.nhs.uk +44 131 536 1000 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.