A partial knee replacement is an alternative to total knee replacement for some patients with osteoarthritis of the knee. This surgery can be done when the damage is confined to a particular compartment of the knee. To learn more about partial knee replacement surgery, contact Plymouth Bay Orthopedic Associates.
When it comes to knee osteoarthritis, the cartilage protecting the bones of the knee slowly wears away. This can occur throughout the knee joint or just in a single area of the knee. Advanced osteoarthritis that is limited to a single compartment may be treated with a uni compartmental knee replacement. During this procedure, the damaged compartment is replaced with metal and plastic. The healthy cartilage and bone, as well as all of the ligaments, are preserved.
What is Partial Knee Replacement Surgery?
A partial knee replacement is a surgical procedure that helps relieve arthritis in one or two of three compartments of the knee. Only the damaged area of the knee is replaced, helping minimize trauma to the healthy bone and tissue.
The Procedure
Before your procedure, one of our providers will discuss anesthesia choices with you. Usually, partial knee replacement operation lasts about one to two hours. Your surgeon will begin by making an incision at the front of the knee. They will then explore the three compartments of the knee to verify that the cartilage damage is limited to one compartment and that the ligaments are intact.
During surgery, the damaged cartilage is replaced with metal coverings that recreate the surface of the joint. These metal parts are held to the bone with special cement. Then, a plastic insert is placed between the two metal components to create a smooth gliding surface.
Recovery
Our providers may advise to avoid strenuous activity for a specified period of time. Everyone’s recovery will vary based on the severity of their condition as well as the extent of their procedure.
Who Is A Good Candidate?
Patients with medial or lateral knee osteoarthritis may be ideal candidates for partial knee replacement. “Medial” refers to the inside compartment of the joint, which is the compartment nearest the opposite knee, while “lateral” refers to the outside compartment farthest from the opposite knee. Medial knee joint degeneration is the most common form of arthritis.
To find out if you’re a good candidate for partial knee replacement surgery, contact us at Plymouth Bay Orthopedic Associates at 781.934.2400 to schedule a consultation today.
