Partial knee replacement
The knee has three main compartments: inner (medial), outer (lateral) and behind the kneecap (patellofemoral). When arthritis affects only one, it can be possible to replace just that part and keep the rest of your knee, including your own ligaments.
Benefits
- Smaller operation with a quicker recovery than a total knee replacement
- A knee that often feels more natural
- Shorter hospital stay, sometimes same day discharge
Who is suitable?
Partial replacement suits people with arthritis confined to one compartment, stable ligaments and a good range of movement. Around 20-25% of people opting for a knee replacement may be suitable. I use X-rays, sometimes a MRI, to check.
Things to consider
National Joint Registry data show that partial knee replacements are more likely to need further surgery in the long term than total knee replacements. However, in carefully selected patients they can give excellent function. If arthritis progresses in another part of the knee, it can be converted to a total replacement. I’ll talk through the balance of benefits and risks for you.
Partial knee replacement can also be performed with MAKO robotic assistance.
Recovery
| Day 0 to 1 | Walking with a frame or crutches |
| 2 to 4 weeks | Walking with a stick or unaided |
| 4 to 6 weeks | Driving, if comfortable and in control |
| 6 to 12 weeks | Most daily activities, golf, cycling and swimming |
| Up to 1 year | Continued improvement in comfort and strength |
Risks
Include infection, blood clots, stiffness, ongoing pain, loosening or wear of the implant and progression of arthritis elsewhere in the knee.