For patients who suffer from osteoarthritis in their knees, knee replacement surgery offers a chance at better mobility, but it can also be a stressful, worrisome event.

If you are in need of a knee replacement procedure, however, there is a less invasive alternative.

Depending on the extent of the osteoarthritis in your knee, you might be qualified for a “partial” knee replacement, also known as unicompartmental knee replacement.

During traditional knee replacement procedures, cartilage and bone that has been affected by osteoarthritis is resurfaced with metal and plastic. This procedure involves the resurfacing of the entire joint. During partial knee replacement surgery, though, only a portion of the knee undergoes resurfacing. For patients whose osteoarthritis is limited to a particular part of their knee, this less invasive procedure is a great alternative to the traditional surgery.

Unicompartmental knee replacement benefits:

• Less invasive with smaller incisions.
• Less time is spent in the medical facility after the procedure.
• Faster recovery time then total knee replacement surgeries.

Partial knee replacement surgery is an excellent option for patients who are eligible for the procedure. While total knee replacement is necessary for patients whose osteoarthritis is widespread, unicompartmental knee surgery offers benefits such as the following:

Patients who have had partial knee replacement surgery also enjoy the benefit of a more natural feeling in their knees, since they were able to retain the non-affected parts.

If you have developed osteoarthritis and your care provider is recommending a partial knee replacement surgery, our team at Iowa City ASC can help you receive the care you need. Our team of expert orthopedic surgeons can help you get back on your feet.

If you’re interested in learning more about unicompartmental knee surgery and its benefits, check out our blog!