Partial Knee Replacement

Partial Knee Replacement (PKR), also known as unicompartmental Knee arthroplasty or Unicondylar Knee Arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure that may be considered for the treatment of osteoarthritis of the knee joint where only one compartment of the knee is damaged.  

The knee joint is divided into three major compartments: the medial compartment (the inside part of the knee), the lateral compartment (the outside part of the knee), and the patellofemoral compartment (the front of the knee between the kneecap and thighbone). 

Advantages of PKR at Sterling Hospitals Ahmedabad: 

• Bone and Tissue Preservation: PKR preserves healthy bone, cartilage, and ligaments in the unaffected compartments of the knee, resulting in a more natural feeling knee after surgery. 
• Faster Recovery: PKR typically has a faster recovery time compared to Total Knee Replacement, with less pain after surgery, lower blood loss, and a reduced risk of blood clots and infection. This allows patients to resume their normal activities sooner. 
• Improved Knee Bending: Patients who undergo PKR often experience improved knee bending compared to Total Knee Replacement, which can result in better mobility and functional outcomes. 
• Customized Approach: PKR allows for a more customized approach, as the implant used is specifically designed to fit the patient's anatomy and the damaged compartment of the knee. This can result in a better fit and alignment, leading to improved long-term outcomes. 
• Lower Risks of Complications: PKR has been shown to have lower risks of complications compared to Total Knee Replacement. These may include lower risks of infection, blood clots, fractures, nerve damage, and constant pain or soreness. 
• Less Invasive: PKR is a less invasive procedure compared to Total Knee Replacement, as it involves a smaller incision and minimal disruption of healthy tissue. This can result in less post-operative pain, shorter hospital stays, and quicker rehabilitation. 
• Suitable for Younger Patients: PKR is often considered a viable option for younger patients with limited knee joint damage, as it preserves more of the patient's natural knee anatomy and may allow for future revision surgeries if needed. 
• Better Functionality: PKR can result in improved knee function, range of motion, and overall joint stability, which can enhance the patient's quality of life and ability to perform daily activities. 

Disadvantages of PKR at Sterling Hospitals Ahmedabad: 

• Potential Need for Future Surgery: One potential disadvantage of PKR is the possibility of needing more surgery in the future if arthritis develops in the parts of the knee that have not been replaced. This may require revision surgery or conversion to a Total Knee Replacement. 
• Patient Selection: PKR is recommended for patients whose arthritis is limited to one compartment of the knee and do not have significant knee stiffness, inflammatory arthritis, or damaged ligaments. Proper patient selection is crucial to achieve optimal outcomes. 
• Surgical Risks: As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications associated with PKR, including infection, blood clots, fractures, nerve damage, and constant pain or soreness. Patients need to be aware of these risks and consult their surgeon if they experience any concerning symptoms. 

In conclusion, PKR at Sterling Hospitals Ahmedabad is a surgical option for patients with osteoarthritis limited to one compartment of the knee. It offers advantages such as bone and tissue preservation, faster recovery, improved knee bending, customized approach, lower risks of complications, less invasiveness, suitability for younger patients, and better functionality. However, potential risks and the need for future surgery should be considered. Proper patient selection and consultation with a healthcare professional are crucial to determine the best treatment approach for each individual.