Partial Knee Replacement
Joint preservation for the right candidates — quicker recovery, preserved bone.
Also called unicompartmental knee replacement, this surgery replaces only the damaged compartment of the knee (medial or lateral), preserving healthy bone and ligaments.
Why it may be right for you
- Less invasive than full TKR, often faster recovery and a more natural knee feeling.
- Ideal for patients with single-compartment osteoarthritis and intact ligaments.
Who is a candidate?
- Isolated compartment arthritis on imaging and exam.
- Stable ligaments and preserved range of motion.
Procedure overview
- Smaller incisions and targeted bone cuts.
- Single-compartment prosthesis implant.
- Shorter hospital stay and quicker rehab vs full TKR.
Benefits
- Faster recovery and lower pain levels.
- More natural knee kinematics.
- Less blood loss and smaller surgical exposure.
- Easier revision to full TKR later if needed.
Recovery
Early mobilization; many return to daily routines sooner than TKR patients.
FAQ
Will arthritis return in other compartments?
There is a small risk; ongoing surveillance and symptom awareness are advised.
Is it less painful?
Often yes, due to smaller surgical exposure and preserved structures.