The minimum-invasive operative provision by means of a partial joint surface replacement according to Repicci represents the smallest-possible prosthetic provision which, above all, compared to the tibia head conversion, causes no considerable change of the biomechanics in view of a later partial endoprosthetic provision. It has to be considered as a preliminary prosthesis to the full prosthesis, i.e. as an individual case solution. The partial joint surface replacement leaves open any option for a total joint surface replacement.

For the endoprosthetic provision,  whether a universal or total joint surface replacement, a similar operative effort was required so far. By means of the surgery technique according to Repicci it is possible to implant a uni-compartmental knee joint surface replacement via a skin cut of only seven to eight centimeters.

Apart from little injuries of the soft parts, early functional treatment, early full strain and thus reaching quick quality of life for the patient, the benefits include short in-patient provision only (approx. 7 days), no considerable loss of blood, little bone loss situation with the inlay technique on the tibia plateau, proper endurances as are already on hand from various publications

Apart from a standard radiograph with the patient standing, a varus and valgus stress image is taken within the bounds of  X-ray diagnostics. This way, the degree of the defect as well as the sound condition of the counter-compartment can be found out at an early stage. An arthroscopy of the joint is basically carried out before the endoprosthetic partial replacement. Using the benefits of the arthroscopic surgery technique, the counter-compartment  can still be reworked, if necessary. A check of the total situation in the cartilage area finally releases the indication for a partial joint surface replacement.

Due to the higher average age of patients, in-patient provision takes about seven days. On the day of surgery, or on the first day after the surgery, the patients can already strain the joint. Intensive training of the upper leg musculature and ambulatory exercises are possible after three to five days at the latest. At discharge, a home care is largely achieved independently. For further treatment, physiotherapy stabilisation and build-up of the upper leg musculature is sufficient.

On the whole, the lower strain of the soft parts by means of this surgery allows for an earlier mobilisation and thus a shortened total rehabilitation. The results obtained so far from previous partial joint surface replacement surgeries represent a high degree of patient satisfaction. As can be taken from literature the monocondylar partial joint surface replacement in no way represents a much worse provision compared to a complete endoprosthetic surgery.  Furthermore, the advantage of the Repicci procedure is considerably less bone removal so that in case of a change the prosthesis itself can be provided with the next bigger implant, or it can be swapped from an inlay to a metal back.