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Partial knee replacement surgery, also known as unicompartmental knee arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure used to treat specific compartments of the knee joint affected by osteoarthritis or other degenerative conditions. Unlike total knee replacement (TKR), which involves replacing the entire knee joint, partial knee replacement focuses solely on addressing the damaged part of the joint.

The knee joint is divided into three compartments (sections):

• The medial compartment (inner side)

• The lateral compartment (outer side)

• The patellofemoral compartment (area under the kneecap)

If the medial or lateral compartments are severely damaged, your surgeon may recommend a partial knee replacement.

The type of partial knee replacement recommended depends on factors such as the precise location and severity of knee arthritis or damage, as well as the individual needs and circumstances of the patient.

The different types of partial knee surgery include:

• Unicondylar Knee Replacement (UKR): This surgery involves replacing only one compartment of the knee joint, either the medial or lateral compartment, leaving the healthy parts untouched.

• Patellofemoral Replacement: In this type of partial knee replacement, only the patellofemoral compartment, which involves the kneecap (patella) and the groove in the thigh bone where it rests, is replaced.

• Bicompartmental Knee Replacement: This surgical procedure involves replacing two of the three compartments of the knee joint, generally either the medial and patellofemoral compartments or the lateral and patellofemoral compartments.

If you are considering partial knee replacement, it's important to discuss it with your orthopedic doctor near you to determine the most suitable option for your condition.

Partial knee replacement surgery may be recommended for individuals with specific knee conditions localized to one of the three compartments of the knee joint. It is typically considered when the damage is limited to a specific area, allowing for the preservation of healthy joint structures.

Here are some reasons why partial knee surgery may be required:

• If arthritis is present in only one side or a particular part of the knee.

• If severe symptoms, such as joint pain, stiffness, limited mobility, and swelling, persist despite nonsurgical treatments.

• If there is only a minor deformity in the knee.

• If the knee ligaments are stable.

The right candidate for partial knee replacement surgery generally exhibits the following characteristics:

• Localized Arthritis: The candidate has arthritis that is limited to one compartment of the knee joint, either the inner, outer or under the kneecap. This indicates that the damage is limited to a specific area.

• Good Ligament Function: Candidates have stable and well-functioning knee ligaments. Undamaged ligaments help maintain joint stability after surgery.

• Limited Deformity:Candidates with only minor deformities in the affected knee are better suited for partial knee replacement. In cases of severe deformities, total knee replacement may be recommended.

• Failure of Nonsurgical Treatments: Candidates have tried nonsurgical treatments, such as lifestyle modifications, medications, and physiotherapy, without significant improvement in symptoms like joint pain, stiffness, limited mobility, and swelling.

If you are experiencing these symptoms, consult with partial knee replacement doctors near you to determine whether you are an ideal candidate for the surgery.

Preparing for partial knee replacement surgery involves several steps to ensure a smooth and successful procedure and recovery. Here are some general guidelines you may follow in consultation with your surgeon.

• Schedule a thorough consultation with your orthopedic surgeon to discuss your medical history, current knee condition, and the potential benefits and risks of the surgery.

• Your surgeon will conduct a physical examination to ensure you are healthy enough to undergo surgery.

• Complete any preoperative tests or evaluations recommended by your surgeon, such as blood tests, electrocardiograms, and imaging studies ( X-rays, MRI, or CT scans).

• Inform your surgeon about all medications you are taking, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, as well as any supplements.

• Follow your surgeon's recommendations regarding medication adjustments before the surgery.

• Follow your surgeon's recommendations regarding medication adjustments before the surgery.

• If you smoke, consider quitting before the surgery, as smoking can increase the risk of complications.

• If overweight, aim to maintain a healthy weight before the surgery to reduce stress on the knee joint and facilitate a smoother recovery.

• Adhere to fasting guidelines provided by your surgeon, which may require refraining from food and drink for several hours before the procedure.

Here is a general overview of how partial knee replacement surgery is typically performed:

• Anesthesia: Before the surgery begins, you will receive either general anesthesia or regional anesthesia to numb the lower part of your body.

• Incision: The surgeon makes a smaller incision to get access to the affected compartment of the knee.

• Exposure of the Knee Joint: The surgeon carefully moves muscles and other tissues to expose the knee joint while minimizing disruption to other surrounding structures.

• Removal of Damaged Tissue: The surgeon removes the damaged or diseased portion of the knee joint, including cartilage, bone, and other affected structures within the specific compartment

• Placement of Implant: Placement of Implant: An artificial implant, typically composed of metal and plastic components, is then inserted into the prepared area.

• Sizing and Alignment: This step is important for restoring normal joint mechanics and minimizing stress on the surrounding tissues. During this phase, the surgeon meticulously sizes and aligns the implant to ensure proper fit and function.

• Closure: Once the implant is securely placed, the surgeon closes the incision using stitches or staples. The wound is dressed, and a sterile bandage is used.

Pros and Cons of Partial Knee Replacement

Partial knee surgery offers several advantages, especially for individuals who meet the criteria for this procedure. Some of the key benefits include:

• Preservation of Healthy Tissue: Only the damaged portion of the knee joint is replaced, preserving healthy bone and soft tissue.

• Smaller Incision: The surgical incision is smaller compared to total knee replacement, resulting in less disruption to surrounding tissues.

• Faster Recovery: Partial knee surgery allows for a quicker recovery period compared to total knee replacement.

• Reduced Blood Loss: Partial knee replacement surgery generally involves less blood loss compared to total knee replacement surgery.

• Lower Infection Risk: With a smaller incision and minimally invasive approach, there is potentially a lower risk of infection.

• Less Postoperative Pain:Due to the smaller incision and preservation of healthy tissue, patients may experience less postoperative pain.

• Shorter Hospital Stay: The hospital stay is usually shorter compared to total knee replacement, allowing for a quicker return to daily activities.

• Minimal Impact on Ligaments: Partial knee surgery often involves minimal disruption to knee ligaments, contributing to joint stability.

While partial knee replacement surgery is generally considered a safe and effective procedure, like any surgical intervention, it carries some risks and potential complications.

Some of the risks associated with partial knee replacement surgery include:

• Infection: Risk of infection at the surgical site or within the artificial joint.

• Blood Clots: Potential for deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE).

• Blood Vessel or Nerve Damage: Potential for deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE).

• Implant Issues: Dislocation, loosening, or wear of artificial joint parts.

• Continuous Pain or Stiffness: Some patients may experience persistent discomfort or stiffness post-surgery.

• Allergic Reaction: Rare risk of an allergic reaction to implant materials.

• Ligament Damage: Potential damage to knee ligaments affecting joint stability.

• Limited Range of Motion: Possibility of restricted knee joint movement.

• Blood or Fluid Formation: Formation of blood or fluid collections around the surgical site.

• Failure to Relieve Symptoms: Partial relief or persistence of symptoms despite surgery. Patients need to discuss these potential risks with their surgeons and weigh them against the benefits of the surgery.

The recovery process after partial knee replacement surgery involves several stages. Here's a general overview of what to expect after the surgery:

Immediate Postoperative Period:

• Hospital Stay: The duration of the hospital stay is generally shorter than that of total knee replacement surgery. You may stay for a day or two.

• Pain Management: Your surgeon may recommend pain management medications or other methods to control pain after the surgical procedure.

• Early Mobility: Physiotherapy sessions may begin shortly after surgery to promote early mobility. A physiotherapist may assist you in standing, walking with crutches or a walker, and performing gentle exercises.

Home Recovery:

• Assistance at Home: Having someone assist you at home during the initial recovery period is necessary to provide emotional support and help with your daily activities.

• Follow Care Instructions: Follow the surgeon's postoperative care instructions, including wound care, medication management, and any specific activity restrictions.

Pain Management:

• Medication Use: Pain medications may be prescribed for a period after surgery. As recovery progresses, the need for pain medication may decrease.

• Ice and Elevation: Ice packs and elevating the leg can help manage swelling and discomfort.

Physiotherapy:

• Rehabilitation Plan: A structured physiotherapy exercise program is crucial for recovery. The exercises focus on improving strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the knee.

• Gradual Progression: Physiotherapy will progress gradually, with the intensity and complexity of exercises increasing as the knee heals.

Return to Daily Activities:

• Driving: Initially, your ability to drive may be restricted. Confirm with your surgeon when it is safe to resume driving.

• Return to Work: The timing for returning to work depends on the type of work and your progress.

Long-Term Recovery:

• Activity Modifications: While several activities can be resumed, strenuous activities may need to be modified or avoided. Discuss activity restrictions and recommendations with your surgeon.

• Follow-Up Appointments: Regular follow-up appointments with the surgeon are scheduled to monitor progress, address concerns, and adjust the rehabilitation plan as needed.

After partial knee replacement surgery, proper care is necessary to ensure a smooth recovery. Here are some general guidelines you may follow:

Incision Care:

• Follow your surgeon's instructions regarding keeping the incision site clean and dry.

• Monitor for signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, or discharge, and report any concerns to your surgeon immediately.

• Protect the incision from direct sun exposure to prevent discoloration.

Pain Management:

• Take your surgeon's prescribed pain medications to manage postoperative discomfort.

• Apply ice packs to the knee to reduce swelling and relieve pain, as recommended by your surgeon.

Physiotherapy and Exercise:

• Undergo a physiotherapy exercise program to improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the knee.

• Gradually increase the intensity and duration of exercises as directed by your physical therapist.

• Perform prescribed exercises at home to maintain progress between physiotherapy sessions.

Mobility and Activity:

• Use assistive devices such as crutches, a walker, or other aids until you regain full mobility.

• Avoid high-impact activities and follow any activity restrictions provided by your surgeon.

• Pay attention to proper body mechanics to avoid unnecessary strain on the knee.

Medication Management:

• Take prescribed medications and confirm any changes with your surgeon.

Lifestyle Adjustments:

• Maintain a well-balanced and nutritious diet to support healing and overall health.

• Focus on maintaining a healthy weight to reduce stress on the knee joint.

• Consider quitting smoking to promote healing and reduce the risk of complications.

Follow-Up Appointments:

• Schedule follow-up appointments with your surgeon to monitor progress and address any concerns.

• Follow-up X-rays may be scheduled to assess the implant and overall joint health.

Avoiding Complications:

• Engage in prescribed measures to prevent blood clots, such as medication, compression stockings, and regular leg movement.

• Be aware of warning signs for complications, such as increased pain, swelling, or changes in the appearance of the knee.

Gradual Return to Activities:

• Discuss with your surgeon when it is safe to return to work.

• Gradually resume daily activities and exercise, avoiding high-impact and strenuous activities until approved by your surgeon.

• Location: The cost of medical procedures can vary significantly depending on the city and even the specific healthcare facility. Urban areas and regions with a higher cost of living usually tend to have higher medical costs.

• Hospital's Reputation: Different hospitals may charge different prices for the same procedure. Factors such as the facility's reputation, quality of care, and provided amenities can influence the cost.

• Surgeon's Fees: The experience and expertise of the surgeon performing the partial knee surgery can affect the cost. Experienced Surgeons may charge higher fees.

• Type of Implant: Various types of implants are available for partial knee replacement surgery. The cost of the implant itself can vary depending on its quality.

• Medical Equipment and Supplies: Additional medical equipment, such as specialized surgical instruments and implants, can contribute to the overall cost of the surgery.

• Anesthesia Fees: The type of anesthesia used during the surgery and the duration of its administration can impact the overall cost.

• Pre-operative and Post-operative Care: Costs associated with pre-operative evaluations, tests, medications, and post-operative care, such as physiotherapy sessions, can add to the total cost.

• Insurance Coverage: Health insurance coverage can significantly affect the out-of- pocket cost for the patient. Some insurance plans may cover a portion or all of the expenses related to partial knee replacement surgery, while others may require the patient to pay a deductible or co-payment.

• Complications and Additional Procedures: If complications arise during or after the surgery, additional medical interventions may be necessary, which can increase the overall cost.

• Rehabilitation and Recovery: The length and intensity of rehabilitation and recovery programs post-surgery can vary, impacting both the direct and indirect costs associated with the procedure.

It's important for patients considering partial knee replacement surgery to thoroughly discuss the cost factors with their surgeons.

Miracles Apollo Cradle/Spectra is recognized as the best hospital for knee replacement surgery in Gurgaon. Led by the region's best knee replacement surgeon and supported by a team of highly skilled medical professionals, we ensure that each patient receives the utmost personalized attention and comprehensive treatment.

With our state-of-the-art facilities equipped with cutting-edge technology, we perform partial knee replacement surgeries with unparalleled precision and efficiency. From thorough pre- operative assessments to meticulous post-operative rehabilitation programs, we prioritize patient care at every step of the process. Our unwavering dedication to unmatched patient care and superior hospital experiences truly sets us apart. We recognize the profound significance of knee replacement procedures and spare no effort in providing the highest standards of medical care and comfort to our patients.

Take the first step towards continued mobility and pain-free life by choosing Miracles Apollo Cradle/Spectra for your knee replacement needs. Contact us to schedule an online consultation.