Orthopedic surgeons often perform knee replacements for patients who are limited by diseases and conditions like osteoarthritis or joint injury. But not all patients require a total replacement. Instead, a partial knee replacement can be used to replace only targeted bones and tissues while preserving as much of the natural joint as possible. Most patients pursue partial knee replacements with the goal of eliminating discomfort and returning to an active, pain-free lifestyle. Partial knee replacements have a high rate of success and when properly cared for, can last patients for many years without the need for additional operations.
Did you know…
that partial knee replacements offer many benefits over total knee replacement procedures? Not only do partial replacements require less invasive surgery, but they also result in less blood loss during surgery on average. Many partial knee replacement patients also experience a shorter recovery period and less post-procedural pain than total knee replacement patients do.
Frequently Asked Questions
Am I a candidate for a partial knee replacement?
You may be a candidate for a partial knee replacement if you are suffering with a knee injury or degenerative disease that is confined to only a single compartment of the knee. Your orthopedist will want to ensure that there are no other, more conservative treatments available before proceeding with a partial knee replacement. To find out if this procedure is right for you, contact your orthopedist to schedule a consultation.
What should I expect during a partial knee replacement?
The partial knee replacement procedure is performed in an inpatient setting with most patients under general anesthesia. An incision is made over the knee, and the diseased or damaged bone and tissue removed from the joint. The new partial prosthetic replaces those areas, and the incision is closed. Most partial knee replacements take less than 1 to 2 hours to complete though patients generally spend an addition 1 to 2 hours in a recovery room.
Will I need to follow any special instructions following my partial knee replacement surgery?
Patients usually remain in the hospital for at least 2 days after a partial knee replacement. During this time, your orthopedists and the hospital medical staff will oversee your recovery to ensure you are not experiencing any complications. Most partial knee replacements take several weeks to heal, during which time your orthopedist may prescribe joint rehab or physical therapy. However, you can expect to be pain-free with restored joint mobility at the end of your rehabilitation and recovery period.
