Knee replacement surgery is considered the most effective treatment for individuals experiencing chronic or severe knee pain due to osteoarthritis or degenerative joint disease. The difference between receiving a partial knee replacement and a total knee replacement is based on the patient's diagnosis. An ideal candidate for a total knee replacement or a partial knee replacement depends primarily on the condition of the three parts of the knee. A successful outcome depends on having the right patient for the procedure.
The knee is separated into three main compartments:
- The medial compartment ( the outside of the knee)
- The lateral compartment (along the outside of the knee)
- The patellofemoral compartment (the front of the knee between the kneecap and thighbone)
For most patients, a total knee replacement surgery will be suggested if two or three compartments are damaged by arthritis. A total knee replacement surgery will also be recommended if a patient has complications such as a deformity caused by long-term arthritis or severe ligament instability. With a total knee replacement, damaged cartilage and bone is removed from the surface of the knee joint and replaced with artificial metal or plastic components. A total knee replacement is often recommended for people with severe osteoarthritis or chronic knee pain.
Only a portion of the knee is replaced with a partial knee replacement. Partial knee replacements are minimally invasive procedures, an alternative option for individuals whose damage to the knee is limited to just a single area of the knee. The benefits of a partial knee replacement are a faster recovery, less cutting of bone, and a natural joint range of motion. A partial knee replacement is generally better for patients with only one affected compartment.
You will need to be evaluated by an orthopedic physician to know whether a complete or partial replacement makes more sense in your situation. If your knee pain is interfering with your life and keeping you from activities you love and isn't improving with conservative treatments, you may be a candidate for a knee replacement surgery. Schedule an appointment with us for an in-depth evaluation and a personalized treatment recommendation.
Dr. Daneca DiPaolo is a highly skilled, board certified orthopedic surgeon and hand specialist located in Grenada, Mississippi. She offers the newest orthopedic techniques, and she provides quality, compassionate, state of the art orthopedic care.
