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Partial Knee Replacement

In a partial knee replacement (unicompartmental knee arthroplasty), only the damaged compartment of your knee is replaced, retaining  the healthy compartments. This enables you to retain more of your natural bone, tissue and ligaments.

Your knee is divided into three compartments: medial (inside part), lateral (outside part) and patellofemoral (under the kneecap). The medial compartment is most commonly affected by arthritis and is the one most commonly replaced.

A partial knee replacement is less invasive, which may afford you a faster recovery, less time in the hospital, and a more active function than with a total knee replacement. Only some patients, however, may be suitable for a partial knee replacement as most patients have two or more areas that are damaged or diseased. A total knee replacement is the best solution for these patients.

Advantages of Partial Knee Replacement

Many studies show good to excellent results for the majority of patients that have a unicompartmental knee replacement, if chosen for the correct indications.

The potential advantages of partial knee replacement over total knee replacement include:

  • Quicker recovery
  • Less pain after surgery
  • Less blood loss
  • Better range of motion
  • A more natural feeling knee

Disadvantages of Partial Knee Replacement

The main disadvantage of partial knee replacement compared with total knee replacement is the potential need for revision surgery. In particular, a total knee replacement may be necessary in the future if arthritis develops in the parts of the knee that have not been replaced.

The main disadvantage of partial knee replacement compared with total knee replacement is the potential need for revision surgery. In particular, a total knee replacement may be necessary in the future if arthritis develops in the parts of the knee that have not been replaced.

Candidates for Surgery

In order to be a candidate for unicompartmental knee replacement, your arthritis must be limited to one compartment of your knee and your knee ligaments should be functioning.

If you think you are an appropriate candidate, you can discuss the surgical options further with Mr Will Blakeney.

Surgery For Shoulder, Hip and Knee

Conditions For Shoulder, Hip and Knee

Perth
Albany

Enquiry

    WA Orthopaedic Consulting Rooms

    Perth
    St John of God
    Medical Clinic
    Suite 213
    25 McCourt Street,
    Subiaco WA 6008

    Albany
    Great Southern
    Specialist Centre,
    55 Cockburn Rd ,
    Mira Mar WA 6330

    Phone: 08 9489 8733
    Email: blakeney@wcortho.com.au
    Fax: 08 9489 8735

    Perth Orthopaedic Operating Theatres

    St John of God Hospital
    12 Salvado Rd, Subiaco WA 6008