Table of contents:
- Definition
- What is a partial knee replacement?
- When do I need to have a partial knee replacement?
- Precautions & warnings
- What do I need to know before undergoing a partial knee replacement?
- Are there any alternatives to partial knee replacements?
- Process
- What should I do before undergoing a partial knee replacement?
- What is the partial knee replacement process?
- What should I do after having had a partial knee replacement?
Complications
Definition
What is a partial knee replacement?
A partial knee replacement, commonly called a unicompartmental knee replacement or arthroplasty, is an operation to remove the damaged compartment in the knee and replace it with a metal or plastic alternative. Cartilage and healthy bones are usually left alone.
The main cause of this surgery is arthritis. Arthritis is a condition that causes damage to one or more joints. Arthritis erodes the cartilage that protects the joint surface, causing damage to the underlying bone. This causes pain and stiffness in the joints.
The advantage of a partial knee replacement is that it improves quality of life by reducing pain and helping you walk more easily.
When do I need to have a partial knee replacement?
Partial knee replacement is an option for a small proportion of patients with osteoarthritis of the knee.
Precautions & warnings
What do I need to know before undergoing a partial knee replacement?
The disadvantage of partial knee replacements over total knee replacements is that they are less predictable for pain relief, and there is the potential for other surgeries to be needed. For example, a total knee replacement may be required in the future if arthritis occurs in the part of the knee that has not been replaced.
Surgery may be considered if your knee is significantly affecting your quality of life and interfering with your daily activities.
Partial knee replacements can decrease function over time.
Are there any alternatives to partial knee replacements?
Pain relievers such as paracetamol and anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen can control pain. Dietary supplements can also relieve symptoms. Consult with your doctor before taking supplements.
Using a walking stick or height riser in shoes can also help you walk.
Moderate exercise can reduce stiffness in your knees.
Steroid injections into the hip joint can reduce pain and stiffness.
Tibial osteotomy can change the shape of the foot and lift the weight of certain parts of the knee.
The above can be less effective if your arthritis condition worsens.
Process
What should I do before undergoing a partial knee replacement?
You may stay in the hospital on the day of the surgery.
Prior to the surgical procedure, the anesthetist will analyze your medical history and discuss anesthesia options with you. Some options for anesthesia are general anesthesia or general anesthesia (unconscious) or spinal (conscious but body numb in the waist down).
Before surgery, the surgeon will mark your knee to verify the part of the operation. You will be given preoperative instructions, such as whether you are allowed to eat before the operation.
What is the partial knee replacement process?
There are several choices of anesthetic technique. The operation usually lasts 1 hour to 90 minutes.
Your surgeon will make an incision in the front of the knee and remove the surface of the damaged joint to replace it with an artificial knee joint made of metal, plastic or ceramic, or a combination of these materials.
Your knee substitute is attached to the bone using acrylic cement or a special coating that attaches to the bone.
What should I do after having had a partial knee replacement?
You are allowed to go home after 1 to 4 days.
You will need a crutch or walking cane for several weeks.
Exercising can help you get back to your normal activities. Consult your doctor first.
In general, patients will recover well, have less pain and can move more easily. Artificial knees will feel different from real knees.
Complications
As with any procedure, there are several possible risks. Ask the surgeon to explain your risk. Your surgeon will explain each risk and take specific measurements to avoid potential complications.
Although they are rare, common risks include:
- blood clotting
- infection
- injury to nerves or blood vessels
- persistent pain
- risks from anesthesia
In partial replacement surgery, there are some specific complications, such as:
- damage to nerves
- damage to blood vessels
- bearing dislocation
- relaxation
- pain, stiffness and loss of knee function (complex regional pain syndrome)
You can minimize the risk of complications by following the doctor's instructions before surgery, such as fasting and stopping certain medications.
Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
