Partial knee replacement is usually required when a person has a severe form of arthritis of the knee. Traditionally, patients diagnosed with the advanced form of arthritis of the joints would have to undergo complete knee replacement. But in some cases, only a part of the most damaged areas of the cartilage needs to get removed.
Most people nowadays often prefer partial knee replacement because the procedure uses smaller incisions. More importantly, it also has a faster recovery period compared to full knee replacement surgery.
Most often, experts use implants during partial knee replacement procedures. They place them between the end of the thigh bone as well as the uppermost part of the shin bone. Although partial knee replacements may sound like the best choice, how would you know if it’s right for you?
Is partial knee replacement surgery right for you?
Experts devised the minimally invasive partial knee replacement procedure for patients with severe knee arthritis. They often recommend it to those who still haven’t found any relief by using conventional non-surgical treatments.Very Well Health says that the treatments can include cortisone injections and oral medications. Physical activities can also be a part of the treatment. If these procedures still don’t help relieve the pain, then surgery can be an option.
A patient can qualify for partial knee surgery if the knee arthritis only affects a specific area of the knee. If arthritis has already spread to other parts of the knees, then the partial knee surgery is no longer appropriate. Also, experts only recommend the procedure for patients who are over 55 years old. They shouldn’t be overweight to prevent any more strain on their knees, and they shouldn’t be athletes or involved in heavy physical labor either. Lastly, their ligaments should be intact.
If the patient doesn’t meet any of the criteria, then there’s a considerable chance that they won’t be considered for the procedure, and even if they do push through with it, odds are that it will not be successful. As a result, only a few patients are eligible for this type of surgery.
Preparing for partial knee replacement
Before the procedure, Medline Plus says that the doctor will give you medicine to help block the pain. You might be put under general anesthesia, which makes you fall asleep. Another option is regional anesthesia which will turn you numb below your waist.
Next, the knee surgeon in Orem will make an incision above your affected knee and looks at the entire knee joint. If he finds that damage is present in more than one part of your knee, you’d have to undergo a complete knee replacement. But if not, then the procedure will proceed.
The surgeon will then remove the damaged tissue and bone and replace it with plastic and metal. He’ll place it directly into the knee and attach it with bone cement once it’s in its proper place. Lastly, he’ll perform a few stitches to close the wound.
You’ll need to stay in the hospital for at least one to two days to recover. But most people can go home a day after the procedure.
Most patients who undergo the procedure recover quickly. They also experience less pain compared to what they felt before the surgery. If you think that this treatment is for you, then go ahead and contact your doctor about it.