Questions Frequently Asked by Solo Knee Patients
- What is a Solo™ Partial knee replacement?
- What, in your opinion, makes this partial knee implant the very best available implant for my condition?
- How long will my Solo Partial Knee typically last?
- If Solo Partial Knee implants fail can they be replaced?
- How long and where will my incision be?
- How long will I be in the hospital?
- How long until I can walk and resume my normal activities?
- How long will it be until I can drive a car?
- When will I be able to return to work?
- Will I need assistance at home after surgery?
- Will I need physical therapy?
- How often will I need to be seen by my surgeon following this surgery?
- When should I have this type of partial knee surgery?
- How much pain relief or increased mobility can I expect?
What is a Solo™ Partial knee replacement?
The Solo Knee System combines a metal and a plastic device to replace only one compartment of the knee. Many knee patients have unicompartmental disease (Arthritis on only one side of the knee) which can be treated by replacing only the affected portion of the knee. This procedure can be completed with less surgical trauma and rehab time than required for a total knee replacement. Your surgeon will determine if the Solo Partial Knee is the best option for you.
What, in your opinion, makes this partial knee implant the very best available implant for my condition?
VOT Solutions™ of Warsaw, Indiana, has developed a partial knee replacement implant and technique that requires minimal bone loss. As a result, patients may recover quicker and experience less pain than with total knee replacement. For the VOT Solo™ Partial Knee Implant, surgeons may use a smaller incision technique in repairing the surface of the damaged knee. This device and procedure is designed as a less invasive alternative to most conventional partial knee replacements and may prevent or postpone the need for a total knee replacement.
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How long will my Solo Partial Knee typically last?
Knee implants have a finite life expectancy depending on an individual’s weight, age, level of activity, and medical condition(s). The Solo knee implant is a medical device that is subject to wear and loosening, which may lead to mechanical failure. Neither VOT nor your surgeon can guarantee that your Solo knee implant will last for any specific length of time, though similar designs, studies have demonstrated success rates to be at approximately 90% for 8-10 years.
If Solo Partial Knee implants fail can they be replaced?
Yes. The Solo Knee Implant is a mechanical device and failures may occur. If the implant fails due to loosening or other issues, the Solo device can be converted successfully to another partial knee or total knee device.
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How long and where will my incision be?
The incision size varies by surgeon preference and experience with the Solo knee system. Size ranges between 1.5 to 3 inches in length. The incision will be located along the inside your knee cap. Your surgeon will determine the appropriate decision length according to your needs.
How long will I be in the hospital?
Typically, partial knee patients will be in the hospital for one-to-two days. Some patients may be discharged earlier, with a stay of less than 23 hours. Your surgeon will determine the appropriate length of your stay.
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How long until I can walk and resume my normal activities?
Walking with support (cane, crutches, or walker) typically begins the day of surgery. Walking support may be continued for up to two weeks or longer depending on the patient’s physical health. Returning to your daily activities will depend upon your individual circumstances. Running, jumping or impact sports are not recommended. Consult with your surgeon or therapist for advice on acceptable activities.
How long will it be until I can drive a car?
You should not drive until you have permission from your surgeon. Driving depends on several factors, such as which leg was operated on and the type of vehicle you drive. If your right leg was operated on and you drive an automatic transmission, you could be driving as soon as two weeks after surgery. If you have a manual transmission (car with clutch), your driving could be restricted for up to six weeks.
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When will I be able to return to work?
Office workers may return in as early as two to three weeks, while workers with more demanding jobs may require more time away from work. The results of your physical therapy sessions will also determine your length of time back to work. Your surgeon will determine the appropriate length of time you are off work, based on medical indications specific to your case.
Will I need assistance at home after surgery?
Solo partial knee patients will likely need assistance with a multitude of activities like climbing stairs or bathing during the first 1 to 2 weeks, depending upon your rehab progress. Home care may be available through your insurance program.
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Will I need physical therapy?
Yes. A home physical therapist may be scheduled if transportation is a problem. If transportation is available, you will undergo physical therapy for two to three weeks. The time required for physical therapy varies with each patient and may be extended depending on progress.
How often will I need to be seen by my surgeon following this surgery?
Solo Partial knee patient’s first office visit after surgery usually occurs one to two weeks after discharge from the hospital. Your orthopedic surgeon will require additional follow-up visits for evaluation and progress.
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When should I have this type of partial knee surgery?
Your orthopedic surgeon will decide if you are a good candidate for the VOT Solo Partial Knee. The decision will be based on your medical history, examination and radiographic findings. The amount of discomfort, pain and quality of life should be considered and discussed with the orthopedic surgeon to determine the justification for surgery. Some patients may postpone surgery if conservative, supportive or other non-operative treatment can relieve discomfort and pain.
How much pain relief or increased mobility can I expect?
Patients generally experience varied results from the Solo knee replacement. Partial knee replacement has a long history of safe and effective use with reduced pain and increased mobility.
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