What is Partial Knee Replacement?

Partial knee replacement, also known as unicompartmental knee arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure used to replace only the damaged part of the knee joint. Unlike total knee replacement, which involves replacing the entire knee joint, partial knee replacement preserves the healthy bone, cartilage, and ligaments of the knee. This procedure is ideal for patients with localised knee arthritis or damage confined to one compartment of the knee, providing pain relief and improved function with a less invasive approach.

How is Partial Knee Replacement Done?

1. Preoperative Assessment: A comprehensive evaluation, including medical history, physical examination, and imaging studies such as X-rays or MRI, is conducted to plan the surgery.
2. Anaesthesia: The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia or regional anaesthesia (spinal or epidural), ensuring the patient is pain-free during the surgery.
3. Incision: A small incision is made over the knee to access the damaged compartment.
4. Removal of Damaged Tissue: The surgeon removes the damaged bone and cartilage from the affected compartment of the knee.
5. Implantation of Prosthesis: The compartment is replaced with a metal and plastic prosthesis. The metal components are fixed to the ends of the femur (thigh bone) and tibia (shin bone), and a plastic spacer is inserted between them to facilitate smooth movement.
6. Closure: The incision is closed with sutures or staples, and a sterile dressing is applied.

Why is Partial Knee Replacement Done?

Partial knee replacement is performed to relieve pain and improve knee function in patients with damage confined to one compartment of the knee. This procedure is beneficial for patients who:

• Have localised arthritis or damage in one part of the knee.
• Experience significant pain and limited function despite conservative treatments such as medications, physical therapy, and injections.
• Are seeking a less invasive surgical option with a quicker recovery time compared to total knee replacement.

Who Might Need Partial Knee Replacement?

Partial knee replacement is recommended for individuals who experience:

• Persistent knee pain localised to one compartment of the knee.
• Limited range of motion or stiffness in the knee.
• Knee pain that interferes with daily activities such as walking, climbing stairs, and standing.
• Insufficient relief from non-surgical treatments like medications, physical therapy, or injections.

Conditions Treated with Partial Knee Replacement

• Unicompartmental Osteoarthritis: Arthritis confined to a single compartment of the knee.
• Post-Traumatic Arthritis: Arthritis resulting from a previous knee injury affecting one compartment.
• Avascular Necrosis: Localised bone death due to loss of blood supply in one compartment of the knee.
• Knee Deformities: Conditions causing damage limited to one part of the knee joint.

Recovery Times

Recovery time after partial knee replacement is generally shorter compared to total knee replacement. Typically:

• Hospital Stay: Patients usually stay in the hospital for 1-3 days post-surgery.
• Initial Recovery: Walking with the aid of crutches or a walker is encouraged within a day after surgery.
• Physical Therapy: A structured rehabilitation programme begins soon after surgery to regain strength and mobility.
• Full Recovery: Most patients resume normal activities within 4 to 6 weeks, though full recovery can take up to 3 months.

Tips for a Good Recovery

1. Follow Postoperative Instructions: Adhere to your surgeon’s guidelines on wound care, activity restrictions, and medication.
2. Physical Therapy: Engage in prescribed physical therapy exercises to enhance strength and mobility.
3. Rest and Elevation: Keep the knee elevated and avoid strenuous activities to reduce swelling.
4. Ice Therapy: Apply ice packs to the knee to reduce pain and inflammation.
5. Healthy Diet: Maintain a balanced diet to support healing and overall health.
6. Monitor for Complications: Watch for signs of complications such as increased pain, swelling, or infection, and report them to your doctor promptly.

Conclusion

Partial knee replacement is an effective solution for individuals suffering from localised knee damage who wish to preserve more of their natural knee structure and benefit from a quicker recovery. By replacing only the damaged part of the knee joint, this procedure can significantly reduce pain, improve function, and enhance quality of life. If you are experiencing knee pain and conservative treatments have not provided relief, partial knee replacement with Professor Ali Ghoz may be the right option for you. Consult with Professor Ghoz to discuss your condition and develop a personalised treatment plan tailored to your needs.