What is partial knee replacement?
The knee has three compartments. When arthritis is limited to just one — most often the inner (medial) side — a partial replacement resurfaces only that worn area and leaves the healthy cartilage and your own ligaments untouched.
Because less of the knee is altered, many patients report a more natural-feeling joint, a smaller scar and a quicker recovery than with a total replacement — provided they are the right candidate.
Who is it for?
Careful selection is the key to a good result. Partial replacement suits patients with:
- Arthritis confined to a single compartment of the knee.
- Intact ligaments, particularly a healthy ACL.
- A knee that still moves well, without major deformity.
- Good-quality cartilage in the remaining compartments.
Suitability is confirmed with imaging and, occasionally, at the time of surgery. Where arthritis is more widespread, a total replacement is the more durable choice.
How the procedure works
Through a smaller incision than a total replacement, only the damaged compartment is resurfaced with a metal and plastic component, while the rest of the knee — including the cruciate ligaments — is preserved. Keeping these structures is what gives the knee its more natural feel.
Recovery timeline
Recovery is typically quicker than after a total replacement. Most patients are walking comfortably within weeks and back to most daily activities within six to eight weeks, with strength and confidence continuing to build over the following months.
Risks & outcomes
Partial replacement has excellent outcomes and high satisfaction in well-selected patients, with a faster recovery and a more natural feel. The main long-term consideration is that arthritis can later develop in the other compartments, which may eventually need conversion to a total replacement — a well-understood and effective option. General surgical risks are uncommon and actively managed.