Unicondylar arthroplasty and anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, a comprehensive solution for medial osteoarthritis with ACL deficiency: Case report.

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE

Medial unicondylar knee arthroplasty (UKA) combined with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction offers a novel approach for patients with advanced medial compartment osteoarthritis and ACL deficiency. This combined procedure addresses both joint degeneration and instability, enhancing outcomes while preserving native tissue.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 50-year-old male with progressive pain and instability in the left knee, and a history of ACL reconstruction performed 10 years prior, underwent a medial UKA and revision ACL reconstruction using a transtibial technique with hamstring grafts. Postoperative evaluation demonstrated restored stability, proper implant positioning, and significant pain relief.

DISCUSSION

The integration of UKA and ACL reconstruction addresses the limitations traditionally associated with ACL deficiency in UKA candidates, such as instability and increased implant stress. This approach provides a tailored solution, particularly for younger or active patients with isolated medial osteoarthritis, by preserving native joint kinematics while ensuring long-term implant durability.

CONCLUSION

This case demonstrates that combining UKA with ACL reconstruction is a viable and effective treatment strategy for selected patients, achieving pain relief, stability, and functional recovery. It underscores the importance of careful surgical planning and patient selection to optimize outcomes.