Abstract: Apparatus and methods are used for severing at least a portion of a lateral retinaculum as part of a lateral release procedure. An elongated guide body has a first, smooth side and second, opposing side having a lengthwise track with a groove. A pushrod having a cutting device is insertable into the track such that the cutting device protrudes from the lengthwise groove, thereby enabling a user to move the pushrod and sever a lateral retinaculum using the cutting device. The cutting device may be a sharp blade or an electrocautery. A method of performing a lateral retinacular release may comprise the steps of inserting the elongated guide body under the skin and subcutaneous fat with the second, opposing side facing a lateral retinaculum; inserting the pushrod into the track of the body; and pushing or pulling the pushrod such that the cutting device severs a lateral retinaculum.

Abstract: An improved uni-compartmental implant has a shaft having a proximal end attached to a head and a distal end, and one or more raised portions spaced apart along the shaft to resist back-out. The length between the head and distal end is preferably less than 50 mm, the distal end of the shaft has a diameter on the order of 2 to 3 mm, the proximal end of the shaft has a diameter on the order of 2 to 4 mm, and the head has a diameter ranging from 4 mm or less to 20 mm or more, making the device suitable for knee arthroscopy and other applications.