Knee pain is something many people experience as they age, especially if they’ve lived active lives or dealt with injuries in the past. While a total knee replacement may sound like the only solution, there’s another option worth considering: partial knee replacement. This procedure is less invasive, preserves more of your natural knee, and often allows for a quicker recovery.
In this article, we’ll walk through everything you need to know about partial knee replacement, from what it involves, who it’s for, the procedure itself, recovery, and how it compares to a total knee replacement.
Understanding Knee Pain and Arthritis
Knee pain is often linked to osteoarthritis, which affects more than 32.5 million adults in the U.S. alone (CDC, 2023). The condition gradually wears down the protective cartilage in the joints, causing stiffness, swelling, and discomfort.
But not all arthritis affects the entire knee. For some people, only one part of the knee joint is damaged — and that’s where partial knee replacement comes in.
What is a Partial Knee Replacement?
A partial knee replacement, also known as unicompartmental knee arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure where only the damaged portion of the knee joint is replaced with an implant.
Instead of replacing the entire joint, surgeons target just the affected area — whether it’s the inner (medial), outer (lateral), or kneecap (patellofemoral) part of the knee.
Benefits of this approach:
- Smaller incision compared to total knee replacement
- Faster recovery time
- Less blood loss during surgery
- Preservation of natural ligaments and bone
- Improved joint movement that feels more natural
Who is a Candidate for Partial Knee Replacement?
Not everyone qualifies for this less invasive option. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), patients may be good candidates if:
- They have arthritis confined to one area of the knee
- Their ligaments, especially the ACL, are strong and intact.
- They maintain a healthy weight.t
- They want to preserve as much natural knee function as possible.
Studies show that 10–20% of patients with knee arthritis are eligible for partial knee replacement instead of total replacement.
The Procedure: What to Expect
Partial knee replacement is typically performed under spinal or general anesthesia and takes about 1–2 hours.
Step 1: Small Incision
A smaller cut is made compared to total knee replacement, usually 7–10 cm long.
Step 2: Removal of Damaged Tissue
Only the diseased cartilage and bone are removed from the affected compartment.
Step 3: Implant Placement
A metal and plastic implant is inserted to replace the damaged section.
Step 4: Preservation
The rest of the knee, including ligaments and healthy cartilage, is preserved for a more natural feel.
Recovery After Partial Knee Replacement
One of the biggest advantages of this procedure is the faster recovery time.
- Hospital Stay: Many patients go home the same day or within 24 hours.
- Walking: Most patients start walking with assistance within hours of surgery.
- Rehabilitation: Physical therapy begins almost immediately.
- Return to Activities: Low-impact sports like swimming, cycling, and golf are often possible within 6–8 weeks.
A 2021 study published in The Journal of Arthroplasty found that patients who had partial knee replacement reported higher early satisfaction rates compared to those with total replacements.
Risks and Considerations
While partial knee replacement is less invasive, it’s still surgery and carries some risks. These include:
- Blood clots
- Infection
- Stiffness
- Implant loosening over time.e
It’s also worth noting that some patients may eventually require a total knee replacement if arthritis spreads to other parts of the joint.
Partial vs. Total Knee Replacement: Key Differences
| Factor | Partial Knee Replacement | Total Knee Replacement |
| Invasiveness | Less invasive, smaller incision | More invasive, larger incision |
| Recovery | Faster, usually 6–8 weeks | Longer, often 3–6 months |
| Pain Relief | Effective for localized arthritis | Best for widespread arthritis |
| Preservation | Retains natural ligaments and bone | Entire joint replaced |
| Risk of Revision | Higher chance of needing future surgery | Lower revision risk in advanced arthritis cases |
Real-Life Outcomes and Success Rates
According to research published in The Lancet Rheumatology (2020):
- Partial knee replacement has a 90–95% survival rate at 10 years.
- Around 85% of patients report being “very satisfied” with their results.
- Total knee replacement, by comparison, has a slightly lower satisfaction rate at early stages, but offers longer durability.
These statistics highlight how partial knee replacement can be a great option for the right patients.
Choosing the Right Surgeon
The success of your surgery depends greatly on the experience of your surgeon. If you’re considering this procedure in Western Australia, seeking guidance from experienced Perth orthopaedic surgeons can ensure you receive tailored advice and high-quality care for your specific condition.
Lifestyle After Surgery: What to Expect
Life after a partial knee replacement can feel liberating. Many patients experience:
- Reduced pain within weeks
- Improved mobility and flexibility
- Ability to return to favorite activities sooner
- A more natural-feeling knee compared to total replacement
Regular follow-ups, maintaining a healthy weight, and engaging in low-impact exercise are all essential to extending the life of your implant.
Final Thoughts
Partial knee replacement offers a less invasive, quicker recovery option for people whose arthritis is limited to one part of the knee. It’s not suitable for everyone, but for eligible patients, it can provide excellent pain relief and improved quality of life.
By understanding the procedure, benefits, risks, and recovery process, you can make an informed decision alongside your surgeon.
