The first partial knee replacement system, designed to correct progressive osteoarthritis in active patients, is now available in Europe.

The Sigma High Performance Partial Knee from DePuy Orthopaedics EMEA is aimed at meeting the treatment needs of patients who are not ready for a total knee replacement.

The system enables surgeons to repair only the parts of the knee that are damaged. Further parts can be added if the disease progresses. Full function can thus be restored and pain relieved at all stages of osteoarthritis.

"Sigma High Performance Partial Knee is a major step forward for the growing number of active patients in their 40s and 50s requiring knee surgery," said Professor David Barrett, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, Southampton University Hospital. "The profile of knee replacement patients in Europe is changing, with patients getting younger and living more active lifestyles. It is important that we are now able to provide active patients with a surgical solution better suited to their lifestyle and expectations."

The Partial Knee is the first modular system designed to allow partial or staged replacement of the knee joint, meaning that surgeons can match the implant specifically to a patient's disease state and allow healthy bone, cartilage and ligaments to remain intact. The preservation of the natural tissues around the treated knee enables most patients to continue with active working and social lives following surgery.

Due to the ageing population, osteoarthritis is set to become the fourth highest cause of global disability by 2020. In the UK, approximately a fifth of people aged 45-64 suffer from osteoarthritic knee pain, and an estimated quarter of adults aged 50 or over report disability from it.

DePuy Orthopaedics, a Johnson & Johnson company, is a leading global provider of orthopaedic devices.