Severe arthritis of the knee can cause so much pain, stiffness and inability to move, that it can affect your quality of life. Typically, physicians will ask patients to try conservative treatment approaches first, such as anti-inflammatory medications, cortisone injections, strengthening exercises and weight loss. If your knee pain doesn’t respond to these treatments, joint replacement surgery may be the solution.
Advancements in joint replacement now offer minimally invasive options for knee surgery for certain patients. Partial knee replacement, also known as unicompartmental replacement, replaces only the most damaged areas of cartilage – such as the outer surface or the inner surface of the knee. These damaged surfaces are then replaced with metal and plastic implants.
“Partial knee replacement may offer several advantages over total joint replacement,” explains Jeffrey Seip, M.D., orthopedic surgeon with Hi-Desert Medical Center. “Since only a limited area is being replaced, there is a smaller incision, less blood loss, and patients often recover faster and have a shorter hospital stay.”
But what about the results compared to total joint replacement? “Pain relief is comparable between total and partial knee replacement. In some patients, there is a better result with partial knee replacement, such as a greater range of motion after surgery,” adds Dr. Seip. “Yet there is not as extensive a track record with less-invasive approaches as there is with total joint replacement.” The best candidates for partial knee replacement include those who are:
• Older than 50 years
• Not obese
• Have intact ligaments
“If your arthritis is widespread or advanced, then traditional total knee replacement could be your best option,” says Dr. Seip. “Remember, all joint replacement surgeries have the potential for risks and complications, and you must follow through with rehabilitation. So always discuss your best options with an orthopedic surgeon.”
Today, even total knee replacement is sometimes performed using the smaller incisions of minimally invasive procedures. This technique is more challenging surgically than standard total knee replacement, yet the benefits to the patient are similar to partial knee replacement, including smaller scars and faster recovery. This approach may be appropriate for patients who are not obese, have reasonable motion and no major deformity of the knee.
For more information on knee replacement surgery, call (760) 365-2520
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