Insertion of the bearing can be challenging due to patient body habitus or limited exposure when using a minimally invasive technique. We describe a novel way of inserting the bearing not previously described in the literature. The bearing is positioned on the femoral component in full flexion. Then, with a gentle extension of the knee, the bearing snaps into position and is seated correctly on a consistent basis.

Unicompartmental knee replacement (UKR) was first developed in the 1950s by McKeever and MacIntosh. In 1978, Goodfellow [1] introduced the meniscal bearing forming the basis of what is now known as the Oxford Partial Knee. Insertion of the bearing can be challenging due to patient body habitus or limited exposure when using a minimally invasive technique. We describe a novel way of inserting the bearing. A feeler gauge is used to ensure the thickness of the desired bearing and that the flexion and extension gaps are equal, to avoid damage to the bearing or medial femoral condyle.

UKR is a technically demanding procedure especially when performed through a minimally invasive approach. This can affect outcome [2,3]. The mobile bearings may also dislocate, and rates have been quoted as being between 0.5% and 10% [4,5]. Therefore the bearing cannot afford to be undersized.

Surgical technique from Biomet states that “the reconstruction is completed by snapping the chosen bearing into place”. This is usually achieved with the knee in flexion and placing the bearing into the flexion gap created intraoperatively. This process, whilst normally straightforward, can be difficult. This technique is reproducible and is a useful aid for tough reductions

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