Partial knee replacement is an excellent option for people whose arthritis involves only one of the three compartments of the knee. It is best suited when it involves the joint between the femur (thigh bone) and tibia (shin bone) on the inside (medial compartment). This xrays shows bone-on-bone in the medial compartment with a preserved space between the bones in the lateral compartment.
Other conditions must be met for a successful partial knee replacement, including:
- Intact anterior cruciate ligament
- Well-preserved range of motion
- No significant deformity due to bone wear
- Adequate bone quality (no osteoporosis
- No history of auto-immune arthritis
As shown in this picture, a partial knee replacement resurfaces only the involved medial compartment, leaving the remainder of the native knee intact.
A partial knee replacement has the following advantages over a total knee replacement:
- Less invasive
- Faster recovery
- Better range of motion
- More natural feeling knee
A well-done partial knee replacement can allow appropriately-selected patients to return to a normal life-style with no post-operative activity restrictions. Good results are contingent upon meeting all of the criteria for surgery.
When compared to a full knee replacement, partial knee replacements do have a higher risk of needing revision to a total knee replacement when patients reach 15 years after surgery as the other parts of the knee may go on to develop arthritis.
Dr. Parsons will discuss this option with you along with the pros and cons in your individual case. The decision to proceed with a partial versus a total knee in patients who are an appropriate candidate is based on a discussion of the pros and cons what each individual’s desire and goals.