(vi) Focal resurfacing implants in the knee and partial knee replacements

Treating the chronically painful knee has never been more challenging. We are now faced with a growing population of increasingly demanding patients presenting with knee pathology that is not responding to conservative measures. This has paved the way for revolutionary techniques to treat the knee, with the aim of preserving as much of the native joint as possible for as long as possible. Finding the best, evidence-based, surgical solutions for patients presenting with focal pathology within the knee is complex, given the multiple modalities of treatments available. It is therefore crucial for healthcare professionals and patients to be appraised of the available treatments and their outcomes, to enable fully informed decisions. This paper presents an overview of the current evidence and treatment options available when considering resurfacing implants and partial knee replacements in the treatment of focal lesions and arthritis in the knee.