Partial Knee Replacement
Partial Knee Replacement in Auburn Hills, MI
If knee arthritis is causing pain, stiffness, and difficulty with daily activities, but the damage is limited to only one area of the knee, a partial knee replacement may be an effective treatment option. Also known as unicompartmental knee replacement, this minimally invasive procedure preserves healthy portions of the knee while replacing only the damaged compartment.
Nicholas B Frisch, MD | MBA is a fellowship-trained, board-certified orthopaedic surgeon specializing in hip and knee replacement, outpatient surgery, robotic-assisted procedures, complex revision and advanced technology. He offers advanced partial knee replacement surgery to patients throughout Auburn Hills and the surrounding communities of Southeast Michigan. His goal is to help patients achieve lasting pain relief, improved mobility, and a faster return to the activities they enjoy.
Unicompartmental (Partial) knee replacement is a minimally invasive surgery in which only the damaged compartment of the knee is replaced with an implant. It is also called a partial knee replacement. The knee can be divided into three compartments: patellofemoral, the compartment in front of the knee between the knee cap and thigh bone, medial compartment, on the inside portion of the knee, and lateral compartment which is the area on the outside portion of the knee joint.
Traditionally, total knee replacement was commonly indicated for severe osteoarthritis of the knee. In total knee replacement, all worn out or damaged surfaces of the knee joint are removed and replaced with new artificial parts. Partial knee replacement is a surgical option if your arthritis is confined to a single compartment of your knee.
Disease Overview
Arthritis is inflammation of a joint causing pain, swelling (inflammation), and stiffness.
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of knee arthritis in which the joint cartilage gradually wears away. It most often affects older people. In a normal joint, articular cartilage allows for smooth movement within the joint, where as in an arthritic knee the cartilage itself becomes thinner or completely absent. In addition, the bones become thicker around the edges of the joint and may form bony “spurs”. These factors can cause pain and restricted range of motion in the joint.
Causes
The exact cause is unknown, however there are several factors that are commonly associated with the onset of arthritis and may include:
- Injury or trauma to the joint
- Fractures of the knee joint
- Increased body weight
- Repetitive overuse
- Joint infection
- Inflammation of the joint
- Connective tissue disorders
Symptoms
Arthritis of the knees can cause knee pain, which may increase after activities such as walking, stair climbing, or kneeling.
The joint may become stiff and swollen, limiting the range of motion. Knee deformities such as knock-knees and bow-legs may also occur.
Diagnosis
Your doctor will diagnose osteoarthritis based on the medical history, physical examination, and X-rays.
X-rays typically show a narrowing of joint space in the arthritic knee.
Surgical procedure
Your doctor may recommend surgery if non-surgical treatment options such as medications, injections, and physical therapy have failed to relieve the symptoms. Patients who receive a partial knee replacement may be candidates for outpatient surgery and if so, may discuss this option with their surgeon.
During the surgery, a small incision is made over the knee to expose the knee joint. Your surgeon will remove only the damaged part of the meniscus and place the implant into the bone by slightly shaping the shin bone and the thigh bone. The plastic component is placed into the new prepared area and is secured with bone cement. Now the damaged part of the femur or thigh bone is removed to accommodate the new metal component which is fixed in place using bone cement. Once the femoral and tibial components are fixed in proper place the knee is taken through a range of movements. The muscles and tendons are then repaired and the incision is closed.
Post-Operative Care
After surgery you will typically start walking within a few hours. A physical therapist will advise you on an exercise program to follow for a period of time to help maintain range of motion and restore your strength. You may perform exercises such as walking, swimming and biking.
Risks and Complications
Possible risks and complications associated with unicompartmental knee replacement include:
- Knee stiffness
- Infection
- Blood clots (Deep vein thrombosis)
- Nerve and blood vessel damage
- Ligament injuries
- Patella (kneecap) dislocation
- Plastic liner wears out
- Loosening of the implant
Advantages
The advantages of Unicompartmental (Partial) Knee Replacement over Total Knee Replacement include:
- Smaller incision
- Less blood loss
- Quick recovery
- Less post-operative pain
- Better overall range of motion
- Feels more like a natural knee
In the event of an emergency dial 911.
In the event of a concerning post-operative complication, please contact us immediately for prompt support. Most concerns can be appropriately addressed by our team and we will make every effort to be available to you in a timely fashion. Avoid going to the Emergency Department for surgical issues unless necessary, or unless instructed by our team.
Additional Resources
Why Choose Dr. Nicholas B. Frisch for Partial Knee Replacement in Auburn Hills, MI?
When arthritis affects only one compartment of the knee, choosing a surgeon with expertise in joint preservation and knee reconstruction is essential. Dr. Frisch provides individualized care and advanced surgical solutions designed to optimize outcomes while preserving as much of the natural knee as possible.
Fellowship-Trained Knee Reconstruction Specialist
Dr. Frisch specializes in knee replacement and joint reconstruction procedures, helping patients find the most appropriate treatment based on the extent of their arthritis and functional goals.
Expertise in Partial Knee Replacement
For appropriately selected patients, partial knee replacement can provide excellent pain relief while preserving healthy bone, cartilage, and ligaments that are unaffected by arthritis.
Personalized Surgical Planning
Every patient receives a comprehensive evaluation to determine whether a partial knee replacement or total knee replacement is the best option for their specific condition.
Focus on Faster Recovery
Because partial knee replacement is less invasive than total knee replacement, many patients experience quicker recovery, less postoperative discomfort, and a more natural-feeling knee.
Comprehensive Care Throughout Treatment
From diagnosis through rehabilitation and long-term follow-up, Dr. Frisch and his team provide guidance and support at every stage of care.
Serving Southeast Michigan Communities
Conveniently located in Auburn Hills, Dr. Frisch proudly serves patients from Rochester Hills, Troy, Bloomfield Hills, Pontiac, Birmingham, Lake Orion, Clarkston, Sterling Heights, and surrounding communities.
Partial Knee Replacement FAQs
What is a partial knee replacement?
Partial knee replacement, also called unicompartmental knee replacement, is a procedure that replaces only the damaged compartment of the knee while preserving the healthy portions of the joint.
Who is a candidate for partial knee replacement?
Patients whose arthritis is limited to a single compartment of the knee may be candidates. A thorough examination, imaging studies, and evaluation of symptoms help determine eligibility.
What are the advantages of partial knee replacement?
Potential benefits include a smaller incision, less blood loss, reduced postoperative pain, faster recovery, improved range of motion, and a knee that often feels more natural compared to total knee replacement.
How is partial knee replacement different from total knee replacement?
Total knee replacement resurfaces all compartments of the knee joint, while partial knee replacement addresses only the damaged area and preserves healthy bone, cartilage, and ligaments.
How long does recovery take after partial knee replacement?
Recovery varies by patient, but many individuals begin walking shortly after surgery and return to normal activities sooner than patients undergoing total knee replacement.
Can arthritis return after partial knee replacement?
While the treated compartment is replaced, arthritis may progress in other areas of the knee over time. Regular follow-up appointments help monitor the health of the joint.
Is outpatient partial knee replacement available?
Many patients undergoing partial knee replacement may be candidates for outpatient surgery, allowing them to return home the same day. Dr. Frisch will determine whether outpatient treatment is appropriate based on your individual circumstances.
Schedule a Partial Knee Replacement Consultation in Auburn Hills, MI
If knee pain from localized arthritis is limiting your mobility and quality of life, partial knee replacement may provide the relief you need while preserving more of your natural knee. Dr. Nicholas B. Frisch offers advanced knee replacement solutions for patients throughout Auburn Hills and Southeast Michigan.
Take the first step toward lasting knee pain relief and improved mobility. Contact our Auburn Hills office today to schedule a consultation and learn whether partial knee replacement is the right treatment option for you.
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