Implantation of a shock or load absorber for mild to moderate symptomatic medial knee osteoarthritis

The procedure

The aim of this procedure is to implant a device that lightens the load on the knee when the person is standing. This reduces pain and could delay the need for more complex surgery.

The patient is given a general anaesthetic. The load absorber is implanted alongside the knee joint under the skin using X‑ray guidance. It is inserted through cuts made on the inside of the leg above and below the knee and fixed to the thigh bone and the shin bone. No bone or tissues are removed, which allows for further surgery later if needed. The device can be removed.