Partial knee replacement, also known as unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA), is a surgical procedure designed to address isolated damage to one compartment of the knee joint, typically the medial (inner) or lateral (outer) compartment. Unlike total knee replacement, which involves replacing the entire knee joint, partial knee replacement focuses on preserving healthy tissue and bone while only replacing the damaged portion of the knee.
The surgery begins with the patient under anesthesia, either general anesthesia or regional anesthesia combined with sedation. The orthopedic surgeon makes a smaller incision over the affected compartment of the knee, minimizing disruption to surrounding tissues. Through this incision, the damaged cartilage and bone within the affected compartment are carefully removed.
Once the damaged tissue is excised, the artificial components are implanted. These typically include a metal component attached to the femur (thigh bone) and a plastic or metal component attached to the tibia (shin bone). In some cases, a plastic or metal spacer may be placed between the femoral and tibial components to facilitate smooth movement within the joint.
Partial knee replacement offers several advantages over total knee replacement, including smaller incisions, less disruption to healthy tissue, faster recovery times, and more natural knee mechanics. Additionally, because partial knee replacement preserves healthy tissue and bone, it may be a suitable option for younger patients with isolated knee arthritis or injury.
Rehabilitation plays a crucial role in the recovery process following partial knee replacement. Physical therapy helps patients regain strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the replaced knee, facilitating a smooth return to normal activities. Most patients can expect to resume light activities within a few weeks of surgery, with full recovery typically achieved within several months.
