partial-knee-replacement

What is Partial Knee Replacement?

Partial Knee Replacement—also known as Unicondylar Knee Arthroplasty (UKA)—is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat arthritis affecting only one part of the knee. Instead of replacing the entire joint, only the damaged compartment is resurfaced, preserving healthy bone, ligaments, and the natural knee movement.

This leads to a faster recovery, more natural knee feel, and excellent long-term outcomes for the right patients.

Who is an ideal candidate?

Partial Knee Replacement may be recommended if you have:

  • Arthritis limited to one compartment
  • Localised knee pain during specific activities
  • Good ligament stability
  • No major deformity (mild bowleg or knock-knee is acceptable)
  • Adequate knee movement and strength
  • Adequate knee movement and strength
  • Symptoms not responding to medications, physiotherapy, or injections

Dr Rahul Singh performs a detailed evaluation—clinical examination, X-rays, MRI when required—to confirm eligibility.

Advantages of Partial Knee Replacement

Compared to Total Knee Replacement, UKA offers:

  • Smaller incision & less bone removal
  • Faster recovery and return to activity
  • More natural knee movement
  • Less postoperative pain
  • Lower risk of complications
  • Higher patient satisfaction in selected candidates

Many patients feel their knee “belongs to them” and functions more naturally than with a full replacement.

How the procedure is performed

  • Anaesthesia: Spinal/epidural or general
  • Duration: 45–60 minutes
  • Approach: A small incision is made over the affected compartment
  • Technique:
    • Only the worn cartilage and bone of the damaged compartment are removed
    • Matching metal and polyethylene implants are positioned with precision guides
    • The healthy ligaments and other compartments are preserved

Most patients walk on the same day or next day.

Recovery Timeline

  • Day 1: Start walking with support; begin physiotherapy
  • 1–2 weeks: Reduced swelling and improved movement
  • 3–4 weeks: Walking more confidently, minimal support
  • 4–6 weeks: Most patients return to daily activities and work
  • 3 months: Comfortable walking, stairs, and low-impact exercise
  • 6–12 months: Full functional recovery

Your rehabilitation will be guided by a personalised protocol at our clinic.

Risks & Considerations

While UKA is safe, potential risks include infection, blood clots, implant wear, or progression of arthritis in the other knee compartments over time. Proper selection by an experienced surgeon greatly increases success.

Why choose Dr Rahul Singh & Grammont Shoulder & Knee Clinic?

  • Dedicated expertise in knee preservation and replacement surgery
  • Evidence-based surgical approach
  • Precision-driven planning for correct implant positioning
  • Faster rehab pathways with personalised physiotherapy
  • High satisfaction rates in younger and active patients

Is Partial Knee Replacement right for you?

If knee pain is affecting your mobility—but not the whole knee is damaged—Partial Knee Replacement may be the ideal solution. A consultation with Dr Rahul Singh will help determine the best treatment for your specific condition.

b. PCL Reconstruction

Book your appointment today at Grammont Shoulder & Knee Clinic, Lucknow to explore whether Partial Knee Replacement can give you long-lasting relief and natural knee function.