Partial knee replacement

Partial Knee Replacement (also known as unicompartmental knee arthroplasty) is a surgical procedure aimed at relieving arthritis in one compartment of the knee. Unlike a Total Knee Replacement, which replaces the entire knee joint, a Partial Knee Replacement only replaces the part of the knee that is damaged or arthritic. This procedure can be an effective treatment for those suffering from osteoarthritis limited to a specific area of the knee.

Indications

Partial Knee Replacement is typically recommended for patients who have severe osteoarthritis of the knee that has not responded to conservative treatment options such as physical therapy, medication, or injections. The ideal candidates are those with arthritis confined to a single compartment of the knee, intact knee ligaments, and limited deformity of the knee.

Procedure

The surgery involves removing the damaged cartilage and bone from the knee and replacing it with artificial components made of metal and plastic. The surgeon makes a smaller incision compared to that in a Total Knee Replacement, which may result in a quicker recovery and less pain post-operatively.

Benefits

The primary benefits of Partial Knee Replacement include a more natural knee movement post-surgery, less bone removal, and potentially a quicker recovery time. Patients often report a higher satisfaction rate with a Partial Knee Replacement compared to a Total Knee Replacement due to these factors.

Risks

As with any surgical procedure, Partial Knee Replacement carries risks such as infection, blood clots, implant wear and tear, and the possibility of needing a future knee replacement surgery.

Recovery

Recovery from a Partial Knee Replacement generally involves a combination of physical therapy, pain management, and gradually increasing activity levels. Most patients can return to their normal daily activities within 6 weeks post-surgery, although complete recovery may take up to 3 months.

Comparison with Total Knee Replacement

While Total Knee Replacement is a more common procedure for knee arthritis, Partial Knee Replacement offers a less invasive option for those with arthritis limited to one part of the knee. The decision between the two procedures depends on the extent of the knee arthritis, patient's activity level, and overall health.