Knee pain can be a major hindrance to your daily life. Simple activities like climbing stairs, walking, or even standing for extended periods can become a struggle. While total knee replacement is a well-known solution for severe arthritis, it might seem like an overwhelming option for some. Thankfully, there’s a minimally invasive alternative: partial knee replacement.
What is Partial Knee Replacement?
Unlike a total knee replacement, which replaces the entire joint, a partial knee replacement targets only the damaged portion of the knee joint. This procedure is ideal for individuals with osteoarthritis affecting a specific area of the knee, most commonly the inner compartment (medial unicompartmental knee arthroplasty) or the outer compartment (lateral unicompartmental knee arthroplasty).
Benefits of Partial Knee Replacement:
Compared to total knee replacement, partial knee replacement offers several advantages:
· Faster recovery time: The smaller incision and less disruption to surrounding tissues lead to a quicker healing process.
· Preservation of healthy bone: Only the damaged part of the joint is replaced, sparing healthy bone and ligaments.
· Improved flexibility and range of motion: Preserving healthy tissues allows for a more natural feel and potentially greater range of motion in the knee.
· Quicker return to daily activities: Patients often experience a faster return to their regular activities compared to total knee replacement.
Is Partial Knee Replacement Right for You?
While partial knee replacement offers numerous benefits, it’s not suitable for everyone. Here are some factors to consider:
– Location and severity of arthritis: The damage should be limited to one specific compartment of the knee.
– Ligament stability: The supporting ligaments (ACL, PCL, MCL, LCL) should be relatively intact.
– Age and activity level: Younger and more active individuals might benefit more due to the potential for greater flexibility.
Sancheti Hospital, Pune: Your Partner in Knee Pain Management
At Sancheti Hospital, Pune, our team of experienced orthopaedic surgeons can help you determine if partial knee replacement is the right solution for your knee pain. We offer a comprehensive consultation process, including:
· Detailed physical examination: Our doctors will assess your range of motion, joint stability, and pain levels.
· Diagnostic imaging: X-rays and potentially MRI scans will provide a clear picture of the extent of damage in your knee joint.
· Discussion of treatment options: Our team will explain both partial and total knee replacement, along with other potential solutions like medications or injections, to help you make an informed decision.
The Partial Knee Replacement Procedure at Sancheti Hospital
If partial knee replacement is the best course of action for you, our skilled surgeons utilize minimally invasive techniques to minimize tissue disruption and promote faster healing. The procedure typically involves:
§ Small incision: A smaller incision compared to total knee replacement allows for better visualization and access to the damaged area.
§ Removal of damaged cartilage: The surgeon removes only the worn-out cartilage in the affected compartment.
§ Implant placement: A metal implant that replicates the healthy joint surface is precisely positioned.
§ Closure and recovery: The incision is carefully closed, and a rehabilitation plan is established for a smooth recovery.
Following surgery, a dedicated physical therapy program is crucial to regain strength, flexibility, and range of motion in your knee. Our experienced physiotherapists will guide you through exercises to ensure a successful recovery and optimal long-term function.
Partial Knee Replacement: A Step Towards a Pain-Free Future
Partial knee replacement can be a life-changing procedure for individuals suffering from knee pain. It offers a minimally invasive solution to restore knee function and improve your quality of life. Sancheti Hospital, Pune, is committed to providing comprehensive care for knee pain, from diagnosis and treatment options to rehabilitation and recovery.
Schedule a consultation with our orthopaedic specialists today to discuss if partial knee replacement can help you get back to enjoying the activities you love.
