Treatment: Partial Knee Replacement Surgery

A partial knee replacement can significantly relieve knee pain and restore mobility, offering a quicker recovery than total replacement.

This surgical procedure is a highly effective, minimally invasive solution designed to address joint deterioration in a targeted way.

Under the expert care of Prof. Etienne Cavaignac, this knee replacement surgery ensures precise treatment, quicker recovery, and lasting results. This allows patients to swiftly return to their regular routines and favourite hobbies.

What is a Partial Knee Replacement?

Understanding what is a partial knee replacement can help you make informed decisions about your knee's health.

Also known as a unicompartmental knee replacement, this surgery replaces only the damaged compartment of the knee, leaving healthy tissues intact. Unlike a total knee replacement, the partial procedure is less invasive, providing patients with a faster return to everyday activities.

The procedure involves resurfacing the affected areas of the joint with artificial implants specifically designed to mimic natural knee movement. Typically, this is either a medial partial knee replacement or a lateral procedure, depending on the location of your knee damage. Advanced materials used in these implants closely replicate natural joint surfaces, enhancing comfort and functionality.

Who is a Candidate for Partial Knee Replacement?

Determining precisely who is a candidate for partial knee replacement involves evaluating several factors. Prof. Cavaignac carefully assesses each patient's joint condition through clinical examinations, partial knee replacement X-rays, and other imaging tests.

Ideal candidates usually have :
• Arthritis confined to one knee compartment
• Intact knee ligaments
• Moderate pain that interferes with daily life but remains unresponsive to conservative treatments like medications, injections, and physiotherapy.

The surgery is typically recommended for patients seeking to preserve their knee’s natural anatomy while achieving significant pain relief and improved mobility. Additionally, younger, more active individuals may benefit greatly from this surgery due to its faster recovery and the preservation of healthy knee tissue.

Partial Knee Replacement Procedure in Detail

The partial knee replacement procedure is designed to be as minimally invasive as possible. Prof. Cavaignac uses robotic-assisted surgery technology to optimise precision. This advanced approach involves making smaller incisions, resulting in reduced tissue damage, less postoperative discomfort, and faster recovery.

The operation involves removing damaged cartilage and bone surfaces from the affected knee compartment, replacing them with precisely fitted implants. The robotic system aids in ensuring perfect alignment and positioning, significantly enhancing the procedure’s accuracy and outcomes. Each step of the surgery is meticulously planned beforehand using advanced computer-generated imaging, ensuring optimal results tailored specifically to the patient's anatomy.

For those interested, Prof. Cavaignac provides detailed partial knee replacement images and educational resources, including a partial knee replacement video, to help patients understand the surgery fully before their procedure.

Life After Partial Knee Replacement

Patients frequently enquire about life after partial knee replacement. Post-operative recovery typically progresses faster than with total knee replacement. Most patients can resume daily activities and walking unaided within a few weeks. Complete rehabilitation usually takes around 3 to 6 months, with physiotherapy playing a pivotal role in restoring joint function and overall physical health.

Immediate Post-Surgery Recovery

Immediately after partial knee replacement surgery, managing pain and swelling is crucial, alongside encouraging early movement. Within hours, gentle exercises begin to promote joint flexibility.

Physiotherapists assist patients with these movements, aiming to reduce stiffness and improve circulation. Mobility aids support patients during the initial phase of regaining knee strength.

Weeks 1 to 6

In the initial weeks following surgery, the focus is on steadily enhancing knee strength and mobility. Patients typically begin by using crutches, gradually progressing to a cane, and eventually walking independently as their knee strength and confidence increase.

Exercises such as gentle leg presses and mini-squats are specifically designed to strengthen the muscles around the knee without overloading the joint.

Months 3 to 6

By six weeks post-surgery, most patients comfortably resume daily activities. Physiotherapy continues to build strength, stability, and balance through targeted exercises.

Patients are encouraged to stay active with low-impact activities such as walking and cycling. Full recovery generally takes up to six months, varying by individual progress.

Prof. Cavaignac recommends a personalised partial knee replacement protocol to guide patients safely through their rehabilitation. Exercises and physical therapy sessions are tailored to rebuild strength, enhance balance, and improve joint flexibility, ultimately allowing you to return confidently to your favourite activities.

Observing before and after partial knee replacement transformations is incredibly motivating. Patients often report drastic reductions in pain and marked improvements in mobility shortly after their surgery. The ability to resume an active lifestyle with minimal restrictions highlights the profound positive impact this surgery has on patients’ lives.

Pros and Cons of Partial Knee Replacement

Considering the pros and cons of partial knee replacement helps set realistic expectations. The benefits of partial knee replacement include :

• A smaller incision
• A reduced hospital stay
• Less postoperative pain
• Quicker rehabilitation
• Retention of natural knee structures, enhancing future knee function and allowing for easier surgical intervention if needed later.

Potential downsides, although rare, may involve limited suitability if arthritis progresses to other knee compartments, necessitating subsequent total knee replacement. Regular follow-up appointments help monitor your knee condition and promptly address any potential issues.

Longevity and Success Rate of Partial Knee Replacement

Patients naturally want reassurance regarding the success rate of partial knee replacement and how durable these procedures are. The partial knee replacement success rate is generally high, with significant improvements in quality of life and pain relief reported by the vast majority of patients.

If you are considering a partial knee replacement procedure and wondering, "How long does a partial knee replacement last?", the answer is encouraging. Typically, these implants can last between 10 to 20 years, sometimes even longer, depending on patient lifestyle, activity levels, weight management, and adherence to recommended care guidelines.

Unicompartmental partial knee replacement: Book a consultation now.

Trust Prof. Etienne Cavaignac’s expertise to guide you through the process of unicompartmental partial knee replacement.

Don’t let knee pain limit your life. Contact us today to schedule your personal consultation and take the first step towards reclaiming your mobility, independence, and active lifestyle.