Is A Smaller Surgery Always Better?
Most people know what a total knee replacement is. But what about a partial knee replacement? While the thought of having a smaller surgery may be immediately appealing, partial, or unicompartmental, knee replacement isn’t the right choice for every patient. Both total and partial joint surgeries have different benefits for different patients.

What are the differences?
When a person opts for a knee replacement, a surgeon removes or resurfaces damaged bone and cartilage and then replaces the knee with prosthetic components. In a total knee replacement, the entire joint is replaced with a prosthetic one. In a partial replacement, only a portion of the knee is replaced. This might be a good option for patients whose disease or deterioration of the knee has not progressed into multiple compartments.
Understanding knee compartments
The knee is made up of 3 compartments: the inside or medial compartment, the outside or lateral compartment, and the patellofemoral compartment or the front of the knee. When a person has osteoarthritis, the cartilage in these compartments slowly deteriorates. In some patients, osteoarthritis only affects one compartment. In these cases, a surgeon may suggest an unicompartmental joint replacement, or just replacing one compartment.
Benefits of partial surgery
Patients who are good candidates for a partial knee replacement may experience a faster recovery and less pain. Because some of the natural bone and ligaments are still in place, the patient’s knee may bend better after a partial knee replacement. Some patients also just appreciate knowing that not the entire knee is prosthetic.
Risks of partial surgery
The biggest drawback of partial knee replacement is the unpredictability of future arthritis. If someone has a partial knee replacement and then develops osteoarthritis in the previously unaffected compartments, the patient may need additional surgery. Many people would rather have a total knee replacement than risk needing further surgery down the road. Total knee replacement surgeries have excellent patient satisfaction scores, and over 90% of knee surgery candidates opt for a full replacement. However, the surgeon can help patients decide which procedure has the most benefits based on individual circumstances.
Who is a good candidate?
Unicompartmental knee replacement candidates must have arthritis that’s limited to one compartment of the knee. If a patient has ligament damage, inflammatory arthritis, or significant stiffness, a total joint replacement may be the better choice.
Don’t put off pain relief
For many patients, total joint replacement surgery brings significant pain relief and improved function. Many people report regret over waiting for surgery, as a joint replacement can give older patients a new lease on life during the golden years. For more information about knee replacement options, speak with an orthopedic surgeon.
Achilles Tendon Repair Recovery Timeline: Why Rest And Physical Therapy Is Critical
Minnesota Valley Valley Center2023-09-28T12:49:35-05:00September 26th, 2023|
An Achilles tendon recovery timeline can be long and grueling. With rest and physical therapy, patients can see faster results.
Big Toe Arthritis: Can Hallux Rigidus Repair Bring Long-Term Relief?
Minnesota Valley Valley Center2023-09-22T11:46:00-05:00September 19th, 2023|
Big toe arthritis can cause severe discomfort if left untreated. Hallux rigidus repair can provide extensive relief for patients.
3 Signs Of A Suspected Foot Fracture: What To Expect During ORIF
Minnesota Valley Valley Center2023-09-22T11:45:51-05:00September 12th, 2023|
Foot fractures can be debilitating and reduce mobility. Signs can indicate that a fracture is more serious, possibly requiring ORIF surgery.
More Articles from MVSC
August 11, 2023
Most people see significant improvement after hip replacement surgery, but some lifestyle habits can slow down recovery and exacerbate pain.
July 6, 2023
UCL reconstruction restores ROM and elbow stability. Tommy John surgery is for unresolved complete tears or overhead activities.
June 14, 2023
Jogging is a great way to stay physically fit, but knee pain can be an unwanted side effect. For some, joint replacement may be necessary.
April 21, 2023
Shoulder replacement requires an extensive recovery period. Patients need to gradually work back into lifting heavy weights.