Not everyone with knee arthritis needs a full knee replacement. For some people, a partial (unicondylar) knee replacement is an option. Here’s how the two compare.
What is a total knee replacement?
A total knee replacement resurfaces the whole knee joint, replacing the damaged surfaces with implants. It is suitable when arthritis affects more than one part (compartment) of the knee, and it is one of the most successful operations in modern medicine.
What is a partial (unicondylar) knee replacement?
A partial replacement resurfaces only the single damaged compartment of the knee, leaving the healthy bone, cartilage and ligaments in place. It is an option when arthritis is confined to just one part of the knee.
How they compare
- Bone and tissue preserved: partial replacement removes less bone and keeps more of your natural knee.
- Recovery: many people recover more quickly after a partial replacement, though this varies.
- Feel: because the ligaments are preserved, a partial knee can feel very natural for suitable patients.
- Suitability: partial replacement only works if arthritis is limited to one compartment with stable ligaments.
- Durability: both are durable; a partial replacement can usually be converted to a total replacement if needed.
Which is right for you?
The answer depends on where your arthritis is, the condition of your ligaments, your knee’s range of motion and your goals. A clinical examination and imaging help determine which option is suitable — this is not a decision to make on symptoms alone.
To find out whether you’re a candidate for partial or total knee replacement in Sharjah or Dubai, book a consultation with Dr. Vignesh Karthik.