The knee is the largest joint in your body – made up of the lower end of the thigh bone (femur), which glides on the upper end of the shin bone (tibia). The kneecap (patella) slides in a groove on the end of the thigh bone. Cartilage covers the ends of the femur, tibia and back of the kneecap. Joint fluid lubricates the knee, making it move smoothly. Ligaments and muscles help keep the knee strong and stable.

If you are experiencing pain or arthritis in your knee, your doctor may recommend Partial knee replacement, also known as unicompartmental knee arthroplasty, to get you back to your normal routine and enjoying life. Unlike total knee replacement, in which the entire joint is removed, partial knee replacement involves just the inside (medial) or outside (lateral) compartments of the knee, which are replaced with artificial parts.

Before partial knee replacement surgery is considered, our Norton Orthopaedic Care specialists offer a treatment plan consisting of medications, physical therapy and/or other treatment options. Partial knee replacement surgery may be recommended when you have severe arthritis in one side of one knee and nonsurgical treatments have not provided relief.

When the cartilage starts wearing away, the knee becomes stiff and painful. This is called arthritis. Eventually bone starts rubbing against bone, causing even more pain and loss of function.

During partial knee replacement surgery, a small incision (typically about three inches long), is made over the damaged area of the knee.

The damaged bone is removed and replaced with an implant (prosthetic) made of plastic and metal.

Most patients go home the day after surgery and have a rapid recovery. Pain usually is considerably reduced after surgery.

The surgeon will do the easy part; it’s up to you to do the rest – physical therapy and following your surgeon’s instructions.

Norton Joint Care
We understand joint replacement surgery may sound intimidating. If your physician has recommended surgery, you may have many questions. The Norton Joint Care program includes comprehensive education and rehabilitation components, so you will know what to expect before, during and after surgery.

For more information or to schedule an appointment with an orthopaedic specialist, call (502) 629-1234.