Osteoarthritis can cause incapacitating knee pain, often leading to joint replacement surgery. For some individuals, partial (unicompartmental) knee replacement may offer a less invasive, highly effective alternative to total knee replacement.
Our board-certified orthopaedic surgeon, Kevin Park, MD, performs total and partial knee replacement surgery for patients in Houston, Texas. But how do you know if you’re a good candidate for partial knee replacement? We explain here.
The knee joint forms where your thigh bone (femur) meets your shinbone (tibia). There are three places (called compartments) where bones make contact:
Osteoarthritis occurs when articular cartilage (the protective covering on the ends of bones) in these compartments deteriorates, leading to pain and stiffness.
If the damage only affects one compartment, partial knee replacement surgery could be a good fit. This procedure preserves healthy cartilage, bone, and ligaments, offering a more natural feel post-surgery.
Only 5% of knee replacement surgeries are partial because far fewer patients qualify. To be considered for partial knee replacement, you must have:
People with inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or those with injuries affecting multiple compartments are not suitable candidates for partial knee replacement. But they may benefit from total joint replacement instead.
During partial knee replacement surgery, Dr. Park makes a small incision to access the affected compartment. He removes damaged cartilage and bone, replacing them with metal and plastic components.
A plastic spacer mimics the smooth movement of natural cartilage. Healthy tissues remain untouched, making recovery faster and less painful than total knee replacement.
Rehabilitation is essential for a successful recovery after partial knee replacement. Physical therapy begins shortly after surgery, focusing on restoring strength, flexibility, and range of motion.
Following Dr. Park’s instructions and staying committed to your rehab program optimizes outcomes and prevents complications.
Most patients resume daily activities within three weeks. Initially, you’ll use a cane or walker but will quickly transition to independent movement as healing progresses.
Partial knee replacement has several advantages:
Patients often report higher satisfaction and a quicker return to normal activities compared to total knee replacement.
Although it has significant benefits, partial knee replacement does have a potential downside — a higher likelihood of needing revision surgery in the future due to the implant loosening and/or arthritis spreading to other compartments.
But risks are relatively rare with modern surgical techniques and proper postoperative care.
Determining whether partial knee replacement is right for you requires a thorough evaluation by an orthopaedic specialist. Dr. Park uses advanced imaging and diagnostic techniques to determine the best treatment plan tailored to your condition.
If you have osteoarthritis limited to one knee compartment and intact knee ligaments, partial knee replacement surgery may be a game-changer. It’s ideal for individuals seeking pain relief while maintaining more natural knee function.
We provide expert guidance throughout the process for patients who are good partial knee replacement candidates, from presurgical preparation to postoperative care.
Living with knee pain shouldn’t be a daily struggle, and partial knee replacement could be your solution to reclaiming an active and pain-free lifestyle. If osteoarthritis limits your mobility and affects your quality of life, schedule an evaluation with Kevin Park, MD, today by phone or complete the inquiry form on our Contact Us page.
