Partial Knee Replacement
A bone-sparing alternative to total knee replacement that preserves healthy tissue and offers faster recovery for patients with localized arthritis.
What is Partial Knee Replacement?
Partial knee replacement, also called unicompartmental knee replacement, is a surgical procedure that replaces only the damaged portion of the knee while preserving healthy bone, cartilage, and ligaments.
The knee has three compartments: medial (inside), lateral (outside), and patellofemoral (front, under the kneecap). When arthritis affects only one compartment, a partial replacement may be an excellent option that offers advantages over total knee replacement.
Knee Compartments
Medial Compartment
Inner side of the knee - most commonly affected and replaced
Lateral Compartment
Outer side of the knee - less commonly requires isolated replacement
Patellofemoral Compartment
Between kneecap and femur - specialized replacement for isolated patellofemoral arthritis
Benefits of Partial Knee Replacement
- Preserves healthy bone and cartilage
- Smaller incision and less tissue disruption
- Faster recovery compared to total knee replacement
- More natural feeling knee motion
- Less blood loss during surgery
- Shorter hospital stay
- Quicker return to daily activities
Ideal Candidates
- Arthritis limited to one compartment of the knee
- Intact ACL and stable knee
- Good range of motion before surgery
- Minimal deformity of the knee
- Healthy weight or moderately overweight
- No inflammatory arthritis (like rheumatoid)
Partial vs. Total Knee Replacement
Partial Replacement
- • Replaces one compartment only
- • Preserves all ligaments
- • Smaller incision (3-4 inches)
- • Less bone removal
- • Typically outpatient or 1-night stay
- • Faster recovery (4-6 weeks)
Total Replacement
- • Replaces all three compartments
- • ACL is removed
- • Larger incision (6-8 inches)
- • More bone removal required
- • 1-2 night hospital stay typical
- • Longer recovery (3+ months)
The right choice depends on the extent and location of your arthritis. Dr. Hunter will help determine which option is best for your situation.
Recovery Timeline
Day 1
Walking with assistance, beginning physical therapy
Week 1-2
Transitioning from walker to cane, increasing mobility
Week 3-4
Walking independently, driving (if left knee or automatic)
Week 6+
Return to most normal activities
Related Conditions
Is partial knee replacement right for you?
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Hunter to discuss your knee arthritis and determine if partial knee replacement could be your best option.