Partial Knee Replacement

Unicompartmental knee replacement, also known as partial knee replacement, is a minimally invasive surgical procedure in which only the damaged section of the knee joint is replaced with an implant.

Traditionally, total knee replacement was the go-to procedure for treating advanced knee osteoarthritis. In that surgery, all damaged surfaces of the knee joint are replaced. However, if arthritis affects only one compartment, a partial knee replacement may be a more suitable alternative as it leaves the healthy bone, cartilage, and ligaments untouched.

Compared to total knee replacement, partial knee surgery offers several advantages:

The surgery is typically performed under spinal or general anesthesia. A small incision is made over the front of the knee. Dr Yu will:

Following surgery, you may need to use a cane or walker for 1–2 weeks. A physiotherapist will guide you through exercises to maintain flexibility and regain strength, typically for 4–6 months. Low-impact activities like walking, swimming, and cycling are encouraged, while high-impact exercises like running should be avoided.

As with any surgery, partial knee replacement has potential risks, including: Infection, blood clots, knee stiffness or pain, implant wear or loosening or the need for revision surgery in the future.

These risks are rare and the majority of patients experience significant pain relief and improved mobility.