Partial Knee replacement

What is partial knee replacement surgery?

Partial knee replacement, also known as unicompartmental knee arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure that involves replacing only the damaged or affected part of the knee joint. Unlike total knee replacement, which involves replacing the entire knee joint, PKR focuses on preserving the healthy structures of the knee.

PKR is typically recommended for patients with knee osteoarthritis that primarily affects one compartment of the knee. It is a less invasive procedure compared to TKR, resulting in smaller incisions, less blood loss, and faster recovery times. Additionally, PKR offers a more natural knee movement and better overall knee function.

Dr. Amit Meena explains, "Patients with unicompartmental knee arthritis experience cartilage degeneration in just one section of the knee. When nonsurgical treatments prove ineffective in managing symptoms, surgeons’ step in to remove damaged cartilage and bone solely from the affected area while preserving the vital ligaments that support the knee joint."

Is partial knee resurfacing the same thing as partial knee replacement?

Partial knee replacement, a transformative surgical procedure, is known by several names, each reflecting its unique aspects and significance in the world of knee health. It goes by the aliases of "partial knee resurfacing surgery," "unicompartmental knee replacement," "unicondylar knee arthroplasty," and "unicondylar knee replacement." Colloquially, it's often affectionately referred to as a "uni."

These various names encapsulate the versatility and precision of this procedure. It's about more than just a medical term; it signifies hope and a tailored solution for patients dealing with knee arthritis in a specific compartment. As you delve into the realm of knee health, understanding these terms can help you better grasp the possibilities and potential of partial knee replacement – a gateway to a life with reduced pain and improved mobility.

If I have partial knee replacement, does that mean that I will no longer have arthritis of the knee?

Partial knee replacement, a specialized surgical approach, provides a targeted solution for arthritis that has taken hold in a specific compartment of the knee. This precision ensures that only the affected area is addressed, leaving the rest of the knee untouched. However, the benefits don't stop there.

One of the remarkable aspects of this procedure is its ability to rebalance the knee, enhancing its overall stability. By re-establishing the natural equilibrium of the joint, partial knee replacement can offer significant relief from the discomfort and limitations caused by arthritis.

While it's rare, it's crucial to acknowledge that arthritis might still develop in other parts of the knee in the future. In such cases, a surgical revision to a total knee replacement may become necessary. Understanding the potential and limitations of partial knee replacement empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their knee health, ensuring a path to a more pain-free and active future.

Are there any age restrictions for getting partial knee replacement surgery?

When it comes to considering partial knee replacements, age is just one of the factors in a broader picture. While there are no rigid age-related guidelines, in general, patients over the age of 40 are often considered suitable candidates if they meet the necessary eligibility criteria.

What happens during partial knee replacement?

Partial knee replacement surgery is a remarkable blend of precision and artistry, designed to bring relief and renewed mobility to patients with arthritis in a specific knee compartment. It's a procedure that unfolds like a carefully choreographed dance between the surgeon's skill and cutting-edge medical technology.

With a small incision, the surgeon gains access to the affected knee compartment. Here, the magic begins. Gently moving the supporting structures out of the way, the surgeon meticulously removes damaged cartilage and bone tissue from the surfaces of the tibia and femur in the arthritic area. The result is a clean canvas, ready for transformation.

Is partial knee replacement painful?

All surgeries result in some pain. While pain after partial knee replacement varies by patient, typically patients experience less pain and stiffness following partial knee replacement than they do after total knee replacement. At KNEECARES – The Superspeciality Knee Clinic, we have robust systems and resources dedicated to addressing post-operative pain management. After partial knee replacement surgery, most patients receive 7 to 14 days of prescription pain medication. In addition, we are currently using treatment protocols that limit the amount of pain medicine needed after partial knee replacement surgery, utilizing nerve block injections to deliver medication locally.

Pain is an inevitable aspect of surgery, but in the realm of partial knee replacement, there's a silver lining. Patients go into transformative journey typically find themselves on a path that promises less discomfort and stiffness compared to their counterparts who undergo total knee replacement. Our center is steadfast in its commitment to your well-being. With robust systems and dedicated resources, we make it a priority to address post-operative pain management effectively. After a successful partial knee replacement, most patients receive prescription pain medication for a span of 7 to 14 days, ensuring that their recovery remains as comfortable as possible.

What is a partial knee replacement prosthesis made of?

The art of knee replacement on meticulously crafted prostheses, each designed to restore the graceful movement of a healthy knee. These implants are forged from a combination of metal and plastic, expertly engineered to glide effortlessly against one another, mimicking the natural function of cartilage.

What is the recovery time for partial knee replacement?

The road to recovery after partial knee replacement surgery is paved with optimism and promise. Most patients can anticipate a swift return to their daily activities within three to six weeks. What is even more exciting is that, with the right physical rehabilitation, many individuals find themselves back on the golf course, pursuing their favorite sports, within just 6 to 10 weeks.

What kind of problems can occur with partial knee replacement surgery?

In the realm of knee health, partial knee replacement stands as a remarkable testament to precision and innovation. This procedure typically boasts minimal blood loss and maintains a low rate of complications, offering a ray of hope to those seeking relief from knee arthritis.

While, like any surgical intervention, partial knee replacement does carry some potential complications, the occurrence of issues such as knee instability, implant loosening, infection, nerve injury, and deep vein thrombosis tends to be notably less frequent compared to total knee replacement. This is especially true for patients who have undergone thorough screening to ensure that they are ideal candidates for the procedure.

Knee Joint Replacement: An Effective Solution for Knee Problems

Partial knee replacement (PKR), a specific type of knee joint replacement that offers several advantages over total knee replacement (TKR). We will also discuss the top surgeons in Jaipur who specialize in PKR and provide exceptional care to their patients. If you are looking for the best PKR surgeons in Jaipur.