When conservative treatments for knee arthritis or injury fail to provide the relief you need, knee replacement surgery may be the next step. However, choosing between a partial and a full knee replacement can be daunting. At TSAOG, our specialists are here to help. Read on to learn the differences between these two surgical options and understand which approach may best suit your needs and goals.

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What is a Partial Knee Replacement?

A partial knee replacement, also known as a unicompartmental knee replacement or unicondylar knee arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure that replaces only one compartment of the knee joint that has been damaged by arthritis or injury, while preserving the healthy parts of the knee.

The knee joint is divided into three compartments:

1. Medial compartment (inner side of the knee)
2. Lateral compartment (outer side of the knee)
3. Patellofemoral compartment (between the kneecap and thighbone)

In a partial knee replacement, only the affected compartment is replaced with a prosthetic implant. The remaining healthy cartilage, bone, and ligaments are left intact.

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What is a Full Knee Replacement?

A full knee replacement, also known as a total knee replacement or total knee arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure that replaces the entire knee joint with a prosthetic implant when the joint has been severely damaged by arthritis, injury, or other conditions. A total knee replacement is a major surgery that requires significant recovery and rehabilitation. However, it can effectively relieve pain, restore function, and improve the quality of life for patients with advanced knee joint damage.

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Key Differences Between Partial vs. Total Knee Replacement

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Extent of Replacement:

• Partial knee replacement (unicompartmental knee replacement) involves replacing only one compartment of the damaged knee joint while preserving the healthy parts of the knee.
• Total knee replacement involves replacing the entire knee joint, removing damaged cartilage and bone from the ends of the femur and tibia, and replacing them with metal and plastic components.

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Indications:

• Partial knee replacement is suitable for patients with arthritis limited to one compartment of the knee, a good range of motion, and a stable knee joint.
• Total knee replacement is recommended when arthritis affects multiple compartments of the knee, the knee is unstable, severe pain limits daily activities, moderate to severe pain while resting, chronic inflammation does not improve with conservative measures, or the knee has a deformity.

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Surgical Procedure:

• Partial knee replacement involves a smaller incision, is less invasive, and has less blood loss than total knee replacement.
• Total knee replacement is a more extensive surgery that removes all the damaged cartilage and some bone and resurfaces a larger area with implants.

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Recovery:

• Partial knee replacement typically offers a faster recovery time, shorter hospital stay, and a more natural feeling knee motion post-surgery compared to total knee replacement.
• Total knee replacement is a major surgery requiring significant recovery and rehabilitation of around 8-12 weeks to regain function.

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Implant:

• In partial knee replacement, only the affected compartment is replaced with a smaller prosthetic implant.
• In total knee replacement, the entire joint is replaced with larger metal and plastic components, including resurfacing the undersurface of the kneecap.

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In summary, partial knee replacement is a less invasive option for patients with limited arthritis, while total knee replacement is necessary for more advanced, widespread joint damage. The choice between the two depends on a thorough evaluation by an orthopedic surgeon considering the patient’s specific condition, goals, and needs. Both aim to relieve pain and restore function, with total knee replacement being a more extensive surgery with a longer recovery period.

Learn more: What to Expect Before and After Knee Replacement Surgery

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Consult TSAOG’s Joint Specialists To Find the Best Option For You

Deciding between a partial and full knee replacement is a significant decision that requires careful consideration of your individual needs, goals, and lifestyle. The experienced joint replacement specialists at TSAOG Orthopaedics & Spine are here to guide you through this process and provide personalized recommendations based on a thorough evaluation of your knee health.

Our team utilizes the latest surgical techniques and technologies, including Stryker’s Mako Robotic-Arm Assisted Surgery System, to deliver precise, customized knee replacements. Whether you’re a candidate for a partial or total knee replacement, our goal is to help you achieve lasting pain relief, restored function, and improved quality of life.

Schedule a consultation with one of TSAOG’s joint replacement specialists today to learn more about your options and take the first step towards a healthier, more active future.

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