Partial Knee Replacement

What is Partial Knee Replacement?

Partial knee replacement is a surgical procedure that replaces only the damaged portion of the knee joint rather than the entire joint. It is used when arthritis or joint damage is limited to a single area of the knee. Because more of the natural knee is preserved, partial knee replacement may allow for more natural movement compared with total knee replacement in selected patients.

Why partial knee replacement may be recommended

Partial knee replacement may be considered if a patient has:

• Arthritis affecting only one compartment of the knee
• Knee pain localized to a specific area
• Preserved knee stability and range of motion
• Symptoms that have not improved with nonsurgical care

Not all patients are candidates. Careful evaluation is needed to determine whether partial or total knee replacement is more appropriate.

How the procedure works

During partial knee replacement:

• An incision is made over the knee.
• Only the damaged portion of bone and cartilage is removed.
• A smaller implant is placed to replace the affected area.
• The remaining healthy bone, cartilage, and ligaments are preserved.

The surgical approach and implant type vary depending on knee anatomy.

Potential benefits

Partial knee replacement may:

• Reduce knee pain
• Improve mobility
• Preserve more natural knee motion
• Allow faster recovery in some patients

Results depend on proper patient selection and rehabilitation.

Recovery — what to expect

Recovery often includes:

• Early movement shortly after surgery
• Immediate use of a continuous passive motion device
• Physical therapy to restore strength and motion
• Pain management
• Functional retraining for activities of daily living
• Strength, balance, and conditioning training
• Gradually returning to daily activities

In many cases, this procedure involves less overall recovery time compared with total knee replacement. Your provider will outline a recovery plan tailored to you.

Risks and possible complications

Possible risks include:

• Infection
• Blood clots
• Implant wear or loosening
• Continued pain
• Progression of arthritis in other parts of the knee

Your surgeon will review risks and expectations before surgery.

Related Conditions

• Knee osteoarthritis
• Degenerative joint disease
• Knee pain

Related Procedures / Treatments

• Total knee replacement
• Arthroplasty
• Physical therapy
• Knee injections

Educational Disclaimer: This information is for patient education only and does not replace professional medical advice.