Overview

Partial knee replacement is a surgical procedure that involves replacing only the damaged or diseased portion of the knee joint with an artificial implant. The knee joint consists of the femur, tibia, and patella. Where total knee replacement replaces the entire joint, partial knee replacement replaces only the damaged portion.

It is an option for individuals with localised knee arthritis, providing pain relief and improved function while preserving healthy knee structures. It is also known as unicompartmental knee replacement.

The surgery helps to lower the symptoms of osteoarthritis of the knee besides lowering pain and immobility of the joint. People facing while walking, running, or playing sports who cannot have an active lifestyle are also recommended for knee surgery.

The surgery is minimally invasive, allowing the patient to heal quickly. Smaller incisions with minimal instruments help quick recovery and leave fewer skin scars. Thus, the surgery is a safe option for young people as well to allow them to resume their active lifestyle and routine schedule at the earliest possible time. As the name of the surgery suggests, it involves operating only the damaged part of the knee. Recovery is quicker than total knee replacement or open surgery.

Who needs partial knee surgery?

Partial knee surgery, or partial knee replacement, is typically recommended for individuals who meet certain criteria. These include:

- Osteoarthritis is a medical condition in which the wear and tear of the bones and cartilage happen, resulting in knee pain and restricted knee movement. The issue makes the individual restricted to low knee movements. Knee replacement surgery helps to get rid of the wear and tear. The surgery involves replacing the knee's damaged compartment with a metallic or ceramic prosthesis. It helps in easier movement and speedy recovery.
- Knee pain: Despite a healthy lifestyle and maintaining an ideal BMI, knee pain can be one of the reasons for partial knee replacement surgery. Unexplained knee pain may restrict the individual from performing certain routine activities. Knee replacement surgery is the right option. The doctor takes an X-ray of the knee to identify the surgical site and other required knee operating options.
- Leg Deformity- Leg deformity is an abnormal growth of the tissues in the leg. The issue is observed in childhood, leading to improper leg posture and difficulty walking. The issue can be resolved with the help of partial or total knee replacement surgery, depending upon the situation of the issue. The surgery helps remove damaged tissue and replace it with a supportive prosthesis.
- Failure of non-surgical treatments- Conservative approaches like medication, physical therapy, injections, and lifestyle modifications have been tried but have not provided sufficient relief.

Risks of Partial Knee Replacement

Mentioned below are some of the possible risks that can happen after the replacement surgery:

- Blood Clot- Blood clot is one of the possible risk factors of knee replacement surgery. It can happen due to the narrowing of veins and creating an obstacle in the smooth flow of blood in the legs. Hence, one may feel tingling due to improper blood flow. To avoid the situation, doctors may suggest blood thinners or other medicines.
- Infection- Infection is another possible issue to be faced after the surgery. An infection at the incision site or a bacterial attack at the prosthesis can worsen the surgery. Proper medications or surgery can help to resolve the issue.
- Continued Pain- Minimal pain after the surgery is a normal site, but if the pain persists for a longer duration making it difficult for the patient to move the knee, then it must be diagnosed by the doctor. It can happen due to damage to the nerves surrounding the surgical area or excessive bleeding.
- Implant problems- Issues with the artificial implant, such as loosening, wear, or dislocation, may occur, potentially requiring revision surgery.
- Nerve or blood vessel damage- There is a small risk of injury to nerves or blood vessels around the knee during the surgical procedure.
- Knee stiffness- Some individuals may experience a limited range of motion or stiffness in the knee joint following surgery, which can impact mobility.
- Pain or swelling- Post-operative pain and swelling are common, but these symptoms are typically managed with medication and physical therapy.
- Allergic reaction- In rare cases, individuals may be allergic to the materials used in the artificial implant.

Partial Knee Replacement Procedure

Mentioned below are the steps defining a partial knee replacement surgery:

- The patient is given general or local anaesthesia to numb the area to be operated on. It depends on the recommendation of the surgeon and the patient’s preference.
- The doctor makes the incision near the area to be operated. Then the instruments required to perform the surgery are inserted along with a camera.
- The camera is connected to a display monitor helpful for the doctor to reach the area to be operated on.
- The supportive bones and cartilage are gently moved to remove the deceased bone.
- The prosthesis of the perfect size is then installed to support the bones and cartilage to help in proper knee movement.
- Finally, the incisions are closed to wrap up the surgery.

Post-Surgery Care Guide

Mentioned below are the guidelines that need to be followed for a speedy partial knee replacement recovery:

- Medications- Take prescribed pain medications as directed and use ice packs or cold therapy to reduce swelling. Elevating the leg can also help alleviate swelling.
- Support for Walking- Minimum pressure on the knee is one of the key pieces of advice for a doctor post surgery. Thus, walking with the help of crutches or a walker after the surgery helps avoid pressuring the knee.
- Follow-Ups- Timely follow-ups and routine check-up with the doctor is other essential guideline after the surgery. It helps to know the current status of the healing procedure and is also helpful for the patient to know any changes in the medications or to clear a query.
- Gradual return to activities- Gradually increase activities and weight-bearing as your healthcare team advises. Use assistive devices like crutches or walkers initially, then transition to a cane as needed.
- Physical therapy and exercises- Engage in prescribed physical therapy exercises to improve range of motion, strengthen muscles, and regain function. Consistency and dedication to the exercise program are crucial for optimal recovery.
- Avoid high-impact activities- Steer clear of activities that place excessive stress on the knee joint, such as running or jumping, to prevent complications and protect the implant.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle- Eat a balanced diet to support healing and maintain a healthy weight. Quit smoking if you smoke, as smoking can impair the healing process. Stay hydrated and get adequate rest for optimal recovery.

Conclusion

Partial knee replacement helps remove the damaged or non-functional compartments of the knee, restricting knee movement. The patient can resume routine life post surgery. The surgery today is advisable for older and youngsters suffering from knee issues.

When to Consult a Doctor

You can also get in touch with the expert Ortho doctors at Narayana Healthcare based in your city to get immediate attention and medical support during injuries, health disorders or any other health concern.

FAQs

Q. What is partial knee replacement? A. Partial knee replacement is a surgical procedure involving the replacement of damaged cartilage or bone with a supportive prosthesis.

Q. Who needs a partial knee replacement? A. Individuals suffering from knee issues such as pain or immobility due to osteoarthritis should opt for partial knee replacement.

Reference Links

- https://www.narayanahealth.org/blog/types-of-knee-replacement-surgery/
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/14599--partial-knee-replacement
- https://www.hss.edu/conditions_partial-knee-replacement.asp