Partial knee replacement, also known as unicompartmental knee arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to replace only the damaged or worn-out part of the knee joint, rather than the entire joint. This procedure is typically performed when only one compartment of the knee-either the medial (inner) or lateral (outer) compartment-is affected by arthritis or other degenerative conditions, while the rest of the knee joint remains relatively healthy. During the surgery, the damaged portion of the knee is removed and replaced with a prosthetic implant, which is usually made of metal and plastic, to restore function and relieve pain in the affected compartment. The primary cause for opting for a partial knee replacement is to provide relief from pain and improve knee function while preserving as much of the natural knee joint as possible. This approach is often recommended for patients with localized arthritis who have not responded to conservative treatments like medication or physical therapy. Partial knee replacement generally offers a quicker recovery time, less postoperative pain, and a shorter hospital stay compared to total knee replacement due to the less invasive nature of the procedure.
Despite its advantages, partial knee replacement carries potential complications. Common risks include infection at the surgical site, blood clots, and adverse reactions to anesthesia. Patients may experience postoperative pain, swelling, or stiffness, and there is a risk of implant-related issues such as wear or loosening. Additionally, there is a possibility of needing a total knee replacement in the future if arthritis progresses in other compartments of the knee. Overall, partial knee replacement can offer significant benefits for patients with isolated knee damage, improving their quality of life and functional outcomes.
