Partial Knee Replacement (Unicompartmental) in India
Minimally invasive replacement of damaged portion of knee joint
Overview
Symptoms & Indications
This surgery may be recommended if you experience:
Knee pain isolated to one side (inner or outer)
Pain worsening with activity and relieved by rest
Stiffness after prolonged sitting
Difficulty with stairs, especially going down
Knee giving way or instability
Good range of motion preserved (can fully straighten knee)
X-rays showing arthritis in only one compartment
Intact ACL and PCL ligaments
No inflammatory arthritis (rheumatoid arthritis)
Age typically over 50 with isolated compartment damage
Procedure Details
Duration
1-1.5 hours
Anesthesia
Spinal or General Anesthesia
Preparation for Surgery
Comprehensive knee examination, X-rays, and possibly MRI to confirm single-compartment arthritis. Pre-operative physiotherapy to optimize muscle strength and range of motion.
Surgical Steps
Spinal or general anesthesia is administered
A 3-4 inch incision is made over the knee (much smaller than total knee)
The damaged cartilage and bone from affected compartment are carefully removed
The healthy ACL and PCL ligaments are preserved
Precise bone cuts are made using alignment guides or robotic assistance
Trial components are tested for fit and alignment
Final metal and plastic components are secured (cemented or press-fit)
Knee is tested for stability, alignment, and range of motion
Incision is closed with minimal tissue disruption
Smaller bandage applied compared to total knee replacement
Recovery Timeline
What to expect during your recovery journey
Immediate Post-Op
Walking with walker same day or next day. Less pain than total knee. Rapid mobilization encouraged. Discharge typically day 1-2.
Early Recovery
Progress to walking stick. Gentle exercises. Most patients manage stairs by week 2. Reduced pain medication needs.
Rapid Progress
Walking without aids for most patients. Return to light daily activities. Driving if comfortable. Outpatient physiotherapy.
Functional Recovery
Progressive strengthening. Return to work for desk jobs. Increased activity tolerance. Near-normal daily function.
Full Recovery
Return to recreational activities including golf, tennis, hiking. Excellent range of motion. Natural knee feel restored.
Tips for Faster Recovery
Take advantage of faster recovery - be active as tolerated
Follow physiotherapy exercises consistently
Ice knee regularly to reduce swelling
The knee will feel more natural than total knee replacement
Attend follow-up appointments for alignment checks
Gradual return to activities - don't rush high-impact sports
Maintain healthy weight to protect the implant
Report any unusual pain or clicking sensations
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this procedure
Q1.How is partial knee replacement different from total knee replacement?
Q2.Am I a candidate for partial knee replacement?
Q3.How long do partial knee replacements last?
Q4.Can I return to sports after partial knee replacement?
Q5.What is the success rate of partial knee replacement at Arthoscenter?
Related Procedures
Total Knee Replacement in India
Complete replacement of damaged knee joint with artificial implant
Knee Arthroscopy Surgery in India
Minimally invasive keyhole surgery to diagnose and treat knee problems
Cartilage Restoration Surgery in India
Advanced surgical techniques to repair and regenerate damaged articular cartilage in knee joints, restoring function and preventing arthritis.
Knee Revision Surgery in India
Replacement or repair of a failed or worn knee implant from previous surgery
Considering This Surgery?
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