Partial knee replacement
The knee is divided into three compartments. A medial (inside), lateral (outside) and patellofemoral (kneecap) compartment. There are individuals that develop arthritis in only one of the three compartments of the knee joint.
If the rest of the knee is in good condition with intact ligaments then it is preferable to replace only the worn part of the knee and leave the good parts alone. This gives a more natural feeling to the knee after replacement often with a near full range of movement. The surgery carries lower risks of thrombosis, infection and dissatisfaction than a full knee replacement but is slightly less predictable.
If you are experiencing knee problems then this score can be used to determine how much they are affecting your quality of life.
This kind of surgery carries all of the risks of a total knee replacement, and in addition there is the potential for the rest of your knee to become arthritic and wear over time requiring conversion to a total knee replacement. The long term results of partial knee replacement are good and you can expect to gain good use of one for at least 10-15 years and some patients do well for much longer than this.
The operation involves either a spinal or general anaesthetic and you will of leave the hospital on the same day (daycase surgery). You are encouraged to mobilise on the day of surgery and will be mobile with crutches when discharged home. Your recovery will be aided by outpatient physiotherapy and most patients are independently mobile by 4-6 weeks and can drive by 4-6 weeks. You will be reviewed in the outpatients clinic at 12 weeks following surgery and usually then discharged to the care of your GP