Partial knee replacement, also known as uni compartmental knee arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure used to replace only the damaged portion of the knee joint with a prosthetic implant. This procedure is typically considered for patients with osteoarthritis that is limited to one compartment of the knee.
Partial knee replacement is suitable for patients with osteoarthritis that affects only one part of the knee joint, usually the medial (inner) compartment or the patellofemoral joint ( joint between knee Cap & thighbone) . It is important to ensure that the rest of the knee joint is healthy and stable.
During the surgery, the damaged cartilage and bone in the affected compartment are removed and replaced with a metal and plastic implant. The procedure is less invasive than total knee replacement and preserves more of the patient's natural knee anatomy.
Partial knee replacement offers several benefits, including faster recovery, less post-operative pain, and more natural knee movement compared to total knee replacement. It also preserves more bone, which may be beneficial for younger patients or those with higher activity levels.
Recovery from partial knee replacement is typically faster than with total knee replacement. Physical therapy is often recommended to help regain strength and mobility in the knee joint. Most patients can return to normal activities within a few weeks to a few months after surgery.