The Different Types of Partial Knee Replacement Procedures

Knee pain and dysfunction can significantly impact the quality of life, making everyday activities challenging. For those suffering from severe knee arthritis or injury, partial knee replacement can be an effective solution. At Robotic Hip and Knee Replacement LA, we specialize in advanced robotic-assisted partial knee replacement procedures, which offer precision and faster recovery times. There are different types of partial knee replacements, including lateral, medial, and patellofemoral, that can reduce knee pain and improve overall function.

Partial knee replacement, also known as unicompartmental knee replacement, is a surgical procedure that involves replacing only the damaged part of the knee joint, preserving the healthy bone and tissue. This approach is less invasive compared to total knee replacement and often results in a quicker recovery and more natural knee function.

Medial Partial Knee Replacement

The most common type of partial knee replacement is the medial partial knee replacement. The medial compartment is the inner part of the knee, which is frequently affected by osteoarthritis. Patients with isolated medial compartment arthritis are ideal candidates for this procedure.

During a medial partial knee replacement, the damaged cartilage and bone in the medial compartment are removed and replaced with a prosthetic implant. The rest of the knee joint remains intact, which helps maintain natural knee movement and stability.

Lateral Partial Knee Replacement

Lateral partial knee replacement is less common than medial but is equally important for patients with arthritis or damage in the outer part of the knee, known as the lateral compartment. This procedure is suitable for those whose arthritis is confined to this specific area.

In a lateral partial knee replacement, the surgeon removes the damaged cartilage and bone from the lateral compartment and replaces them with a prosthetic implant. Like the medial procedure, the rest of the knee joint is preserved.

Patellofemoral Partial Knee Replacement

Patellofemoral partial knee replacement focuses on the patellofemoral compartment, which includes the kneecap (patella) and the groove it slides into (femoral groove). This area is another common site for arthritis, especially in younger, active individuals.

The procedure involves removing the damaged cartilage and bone from the patella and femoral groove and replacing them with a prosthetic implant. This surgery is ideal for patients with isolated patellofemoral arthritis who do not have significant damage in the other compartments of the knee.

The Role of Robotic Assistance

At Robotic Hip and Knee Replacement LA, we utilize advanced robotic technology to perform partial knee replacements. Robotic-assisted surgery offers numerous advantages, including enhanced precision, better alignment, and personalized surgical plans tailored to each patient’s unique anatomy. Advantages of using robotic technology for partial knee replacement procedures include:

• Precision: The robotic system allows for highly accurate removal of damaged tissue and precise placement of the implant.
• Customization: Preoperative planning with 3D imaging ensures the implant is perfectly fitted to the patient’s anatomy.
• Less Trauma: The minimally invasive nature of the procedure leads to less blood loss, reduced pain, and faster recovery.

Partial knee replacement procedures—whether medial, lateral, or patellofemoral—offer targeted solutions for knee arthritis confined to specific compartments of the knee. These procedures preserve as much of the natural knee structure as possible, leading to quicker recovery times and more natural knee function. At Robotic Hip and Knee Replacement LA, our use of robotic-assisted technology enhances the precision and effectiveness of these surgeries, ensuring the best possible outcomes for our patients. If you’re experiencing knee pain and dysfunction, contact us today at our facility in Los Angeles, CA to learn more about partial knee replacement and how it can help you regain your mobility and quality of life.