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Partial knee replacement

Partial Knee Replacement: A Comprehensive Guide for Patients

If you are experiencing significant knee pain but still have some healthy cartilage and bone remaining, partial knee replacement might be the ideal solution for you. This procedure offers several benefits compared to total knee replacement, such as a quicker recovery and less impact on the surrounding healthy tissue. Here we explore what partial knee replacement entails, its benefits, and what you can expect during recovery.

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What is Partial Knee Replacement?

Partial knee replacement, also known as unicompartmental knee arthroplasty, is a procedure where only the damaged portion of the knee is replaced, preserving the healthy parts. The knee consists of three compartments: the medial (inside), the lateral (outside), and the patellofemoral (front) compartments. If your arthritis or injury is limited to just one of these compartments, a partial knee replacement can effectively treat the affected area.
During the procedure, the surgeon will remove the damaged cartilage and bone from the affected compartment and replace it with metal and plastic components designed to restore knee function.

Who is a Candidate for Partial Knee Replacement?

Candidates for partial knee replacement are typically individuals with osteoarthritis confined to a single compartment of the knee. Ideal candidates are those who have tried other treatments, such as medications or physical therapy, without success. Good candidates usually have intact ligaments and a stable knee joint with a good range of motion. Your orthopaedic surgeon will assess your individual condition and determine whether partial knee replacement is right for you.

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What Are the Main Benefits of Partial Knee Replacement?

  • Preserves more natural knee:
    Since only the damaged part of the knee is replaced, partial knee replacement preserves more of your natural knee, resulting in a more natural feeling post-surgery and better overall knee function.

  • Quicker recovery:

    As the procedure is less invasive, it typically involves a shorter hospital stay and quicker rehabilitation process compared to total knee replacement.

  • Reduced pain:

    Many patients report experiencing less pain after partial knee replacement and are able to return to normal activities more rapidly.

  • Better range of motion:

    The preservation of the ligaments, especially the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), leads to better knee motion and function. Many patients regain a range of motion of more than 120 degrees, which is often better than the range achieved with total knee replacement.

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The Surgical Procedure

Before undergoing surgery, you will have a series of evaluations, including X-rays or an MRI, to assess the extent of knee damage. The surgery itself generally takes between one to two hours and is performed under either spinal or general anaesthesia. The surgeon will make a small incision over the knee, remove the damaged tissue, and replace it with prosthetic components tailored to your knee. Once the components are properly aligned and functioning, the incision is closed, and you will be moved to recovery.

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Recovery and Rehabilitation

Recovery from partial knee replacement is typically faster than from total knee replacement. Many patients are able to go home the same day or after a brief hospital stay. Physiotherapy will begin soon after surgery to help you regain strength, mobility, and flexibility in the knee. Most patients are able to resume walking without assistance within three to six weeks. However, full recovery and optimal knee function may take up to three months. It’s important to follow your rehabilitation plan to ensure the best possible outcome.

What Are the Potential Risks and Complications?

As with any surgery, partial knee replacement carries some risks. These can include:

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  • Infection:

    Though rare, infection can occur and may require further treatment.

  • Blood clots:

    Blood clots, such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), can form after surgery. Blood-thinning medications are often prescribed to help reduce this risk.

  • Implant issues:

    The prosthetic components may loosen or wear over time, which might require revision surgery in the future.

  • Arthritis progression:
    Though rare, arthritis may develop in the other parts of the knee (lateral compartment or patellofemoral joint) after the surgery, potentially requiring further treatment or revision surgery.

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What is the Long-Term Outlook for Partial Knee Replacement?

Partial knee replacement generally has a lifespan of 15 to 20 years, after which wear and tear may require revision surgery. Most patients experience a significant reduction in pain, a better range of motion, and improved function after the procedure.
However, there is a small risk of progression of arthritis in the other parts of the knee, which can occur in around 10% of patients within 10 years. If this happens, further surgical interventions may be necessary.

Is Partial Knee Replacement Right for You?

If you're considering partial knee replacement, it’s important to consult with your orthopaedic surgeon to discuss your symptoms, treatment history, and overall health. Your surgeon will assess whether this procedure is the most suitable option for relieving your knee pain and improving your quality of life.
If you’re struggling with knee pain and have been advised that only part of your knee is affected, partial knee replacement may offer a highly effective solution.

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