What You Need to Know About Partial Knee Replacement

Knee arthritis can severely limit mobility and quality of life. When conservative treatments fail, surgical options become necessary. One such option is partial knee surgery, which offers a targeted approach to treating arthritis confined to a specific compartment of the knee. This article provides a detailed overview of partial knee surgery benefits, helping patients understand the procedure, its advantages, and considerations.

Understanding Partial Knee Surgery Benefits

Partial knee surgery, also known as unicompartmental knee replacement, involves replacing only the damaged part of the knee joint. Unlike total knee replacement, which replaces the entire joint, this procedure preserves healthy bone, cartilage, and ligaments. The benefits of this approach include:

• Less invasive surgery: Smaller incisions and less bone removal reduce surgical trauma.

• Faster recovery: Patients often experience quicker rehabilitation and shorter hospital stays.

• Improved joint function: Preserving healthy tissue maintains more natural knee movement.

• Reduced pain: Targeted replacement addresses the specific area causing discomfort.

• Lower risk of complications: Less extensive surgery decreases the chance of infection and blood loss.

  
  

These benefits make partial knee surgery an attractive option for patients with arthritis limited to one compartment of the knee, such as the medial, lateral, or patellofemoral compartments.

Who Is a Suitable Candidate?

Not all patients with knee arthritis qualify for partial knee surgery. Ideal candidates typically have:

• Arthritis confined to a single compartment of the knee.

• Intact ligaments, especially the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL).

• Good range of motion and stable knee alignment.

• No significant deformity or damage in other parts of the knee.

  
  

A thorough clinical assessment and imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRI scans, help determine suitability. Patients with widespread arthritis or ligament instability usually require total knee replacement instead.

Is it worth doing a partial knee replacement?

The decision to undergo partial knee surgery depends on multiple factors, including the severity of symptoms, lifestyle, and overall health. The procedure offers several advantages over total knee replacement, but it also has limitations.

Advantages include:

• Preservation of more natural knee function.

• Less postoperative pain and faster return to daily activities.

• Smaller surgical scars and less blood loss.

  
  

Limitations to consider:

• Not suitable for patients with arthritis affecting multiple compartments.

• Potential need for revision surgery if arthritis progresses.

• Slightly higher risk of implant loosening compared to total knee replacement.

  
  

Studies show that many patients experience excellent outcomes and satisfaction with partial knee surgery. However, candidacy and expectations must be carefully evaluated by an orthopaedic specialist.

A detailed view of the Smith & Nephew Journey II unicompartmental knee replacement, showcasing its advanced design for improved joint mobility and patient comfort.

What to Expect During and After Surgery

Partial knee surgery is typically performed under general or regional anaesthesia. The surgeon makes a small incision over the affected compartment and removes the damaged cartilage and bone. A metal and plastic implant is then fitted to restore joint function.

Postoperative care includes:

• Pain management with medications.

• Early mobilisation with physiotherapy to regain strength and flexibility.

• Use of walking aids as needed during initial recovery.

• Regular follow-up appointments to monitor healing and implant function.

  
  

Most patients can resume normal activities within weeks, although high-impact sports may be discouraged to prolong implant life.

Long-Term Outcomes and Considerations

Long-term success depends on patient selection, surgical technique, and adherence to rehabilitation protocols. Partial knee surgery can provide durable relief for many years. However, arthritis may progress in other compartments, necessitating further intervention.

Patients should maintain a healthy weight, engage in low-impact exercise, and avoid activities that place excessive stress on the knee. Regular monitoring by an orthopaedic specialist ensures early detection of any issues.

For those considering this procedure, consulting a specialist with expertise in advanced knee surgery is essential. Mr Jonathan White offers personalised care and advanced surgical techniques to optimise outcomes for patients in the Peterborough area.

Seeking Expert Advice for Knee Arthritis Treatment

Choosing the right surgical option requires detailed evaluation and expert guidance. Partial knee surgery benefits make it a valuable option for selected patients. However, individual circumstances vary, and a tailored approach is necessary.

Patients are encouraged to discuss symptoms, treatment goals, and concerns with a specialist. This ensures informed decision-making and access to the most appropriate care.

For more information on partial knee replacement, patients can visit the dedicated resource provided by Mr Jonathan White, a leading orthopaedic surgeon specialising in knee and hip care.

This approach aligns with the goal of delivering top-notch, personalised orthopaedic care in the Peterborough area, ensuring excellent outcomes through advanced surgical techniques and meticulous attention.