Because of the unique compartmental design of the knee joint, you may be able to undergo what’s known as a partial knee replacement if you’re dealing with discomfort that isn’t responding as expected to conservative care. A partial knee replacement procedure can be the perfect option for the right candidate, but like any surgery it does come with some potential drawbacks that every patient should be aware of. In today’s blog, we take a closer look at some of the pros and cons associated with partial knee replacement.
Am I Eligible For Partial Knee Replacement?
Before we get into the benefits and drawbacks of the procedure, let’s first take a look at what might make a person eligible for this unique procedure. Osteoarthritis is a condition caused by deterioration of the soft cartilage that covers the ends of bones and makes it easier for your joints to move smoothly. The knee is designed in such a way that there are three areas where bones make contact with one another in the knee joint. They contact near the inside, outside and the kneecap inside the joint, meaning there are three “compartments” to the knee that are subject to deterioration.
In most people, cartilage in these areas wears down at a similar rate, meaning that the health of each compartment is similar as you age. However, if you suffer an injury or a gait issue leads to faster degeneration of one compartment while the other compartments remain in relatively good health, you may be eligible for a partial knee replacement. Instead of replacing the entire knee joint, only the damaged compartment would be addressed, leaving more of the healthy knee joint intact.
Pros of Partial Knee Replacement
Preserving more of the original joint is beneficial for a number of reasons and contributes to a number of the pros you’ll find on the following list. Here’s a look at a number of benefits associated with undergoing a partial knee replacement compared to a total knee replacement.
- Quicker recovery time
- Smaller incisions
- Better preservation of normal joint motion
- Feels more like a normal knee
- Decreased discomfort after surgery
- Decreased blood loss during surgery or infections afterwards
- Less expensive than total joint replacement
Cons of Partial Knee Replacement
As we mentioned above, all surgeries carry some risk, so it’s not like partial knee replacement is without some risk. Here’s a look at some of the potential cons associated with the procedure that a surgeon will work to minimize
- Increased risk of complications compared to non-surgical interventions
- Will not stop potential progression of arthritis in other components
- May need a total knee replacement in the future is cartilage degeneration continues
For the right patient with limited knee compartment degeneration who wants to remain active and will continue to work to keep their knee healthy, a partial knee replacement can be the perfect option to help restore function and eliminate pain that could be causing them to avoid certain activities. As you can see, the benefits far outweigh the cons, but it’s worth having a conversation with a surgeon to discuss your goals and your options before making a decision on the right care for your knee. For more information, or for help with your knee discomfort, reach out to Dr. Botero’s office today.
