Partial knee replacement, also referred to as unicompartmental knee surgery, is an innovative surgical treatment for individuals suffering from knee arthritis.
Unlike total knee replacement, which replaces the entire knee joint, a partial knee replacement only involves the replacement of the damaged or diseased compartments, preserving as much of the natural knee as possible.
Dr. Ulric Bigby is a skilled orthopedic surgeon who specializes in hip and knee replacement surgeries.
Your knee joint comprises three sections or compartments:
In a partial knee replacement, only the compartment affected by arthritis is replaced.
If you've been experiencing chronic knee pain, stiffness, or instability that negatively affects your quality of life, and if non-surgical treatments such as painkillers, physiotherapy, or injections have failed to provide relief, you might be a candidate for knee replacement surgery.
Partial knee replacement has several advantages over total knee replacement, including:
However, it's essential to understand that this procedure is only suitable for patients with a single worn-out or damaged compartment of the knee.
During a partial knee replacement, the surgeon removes the damaged or diseased compartments and replaces them with man-made components or prostheses. Since not all compartments are replaced, the surgical incision is typically smaller, resulting in less trauma to the soft tissues in the knee.
The recovery period following a partial knee replacement is generally shorter compared to a total knee replacement. You should expect to resume most of your usual activities in about six weeks.
Managing post-surgery pain is crucial for a smooth recovery. Your surgeon will suggest a combination of prescription pain medication, over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and acetaminophen to manage your pain.
Physical therapy plays a crucial role in your recovery. A physical therapist will help you regain strength, improve movement, and restore function.
Choosing between a partial and total knee replacement is a personal decision best discussed with a knee replacement specialist. Dr. Ulric Bigby and his team are here to guide you through this process, providing advanced and personalized treatment plans.
Remember, the goal of a partial knee replacement is to alleviate pain, restore function, and enhance your quality of life. By choosing this procedure, you're taking a significant step toward reclaiming a more active, pain-free lifestyle.
If you suspect you may need a knee replacement, we encourage you to consult Dr. Ulric Bigby for a comprehensive evaluation.
Schedule your consultation online or get in touch with Dr. Bigby at one of his three locations:
Your well-being is our priority, and we're committed to helping you regain your mobility and improve your quality of life.
