The extramedullary tensor technique for unicondylar knee arthroplasty

Abstract

The extramedullary (EM) tensor tools and surgical technique were developed to orient cutting guides for the implantation of the M/G unicompartmental prosthesis with greater ease and accuracy and to reduce the surgical morbidity of this limited reconstruction. Unicompartmental knee replacement attempts to reduce pain and improve function by restoring the extremity’s alignment and the joint’s soft tissue balance with the positioning of an implant limited to that compartment. All unicompartmental implants, be they monoblock wafers, mobile-bearing devices, or fixed articular prostheses, must effect this restoration to enjoy whatever success they may provide.