Phone No
+91 9650510275
orthodrhimanshugupta@gmail.com
Location
Plot No. 15/16 Nyay Khand- 1, Ghaziabad.
+91 9650510275
orthodrhimanshugupta@gmail.com
Plot No. 15/16 Nyay Khand- 1, Ghaziabad.
Unicondylar knee replacement is also known as partial knee replacement, is a modern surgical solution for patients with arthritis limited to one side of the knee joint. Unlike total knee replacement, this procedure preserves healthy bone, ligaments, and natural knee movement.
This complete guide explains everything you need to know about unicondylar knee replacement (partial knee replacement), including the procedure, candidacy, benefits, risks, recovery timeline, and life after surgery — so you can make an informed decision with confidence.
Unicondylar knee replacement (UKR) is a type of partial knee replacement where only the affected compartment of the knee is replaced with an implant — medial or lateral. It is recommended when arthritis or cartilage damage affects just one side of the knee.
● Reduce pain caused by worn-out cartilage
● Restore smooth movement
● Preserve natural knee stability and ligaments
By saving the healthy part of the knee, this surgery allows more natural knee motion than total knee replacement.
| Feature | Unicondylar Knee Replacement | Total Knee Replacement |
|---|---|---|
| Area Treated | One compartment | Entire knee joint |
| Recovery | Faster | Slightly longer |
| Knee Motion | More natural | Implant-based movement |
| Suitability | Early-stage arthritis | Advanced arthritis |
| Hospital Stay | Shorter | Moderate |
If arthritis is limited to a single side, unicondylar knee replacement is a better option. But if the entire joint is severely damaged, total knee replacement is recommended.
Different types of unicondylar knee replacement are chosen depending on where the arthritis is located, bone quality, and knee alignment. Selecting the right type ensures better movement, faster recovery, and long-term success.
This is the most commonly performed unicondylar knee replacement, focusing on arthritis that affects only the inner (medial) part of the knee while preserving the healthy outer side.
Best suited for patients:
● Older patients with medial compartment osteoarthritis
● People with pain mainly on the inner side of the knee
This type of partial knee replacement treats damage in the outer (lateral) compartment, improving balance and knee alignment.
Best suited for patients:
● Younger or middle-aged patients with lateral knee arthritis
● Patients with valgus (knock-knee) deformity
A unicondylar knee replacement just for the area behind the kneecap, recommended when pain increases while bending, squatting, or climbing stairs.
Best suited for patients:
● Active individuals with anterior knee pain
● Patients with patellofemoral cartilage wear
Bone cement is used to anchor the implant firmly, providing early and immediate stability and helping patients walk sooner after the surgery.
Best suited for patients:
● Older adults
● Patients with weak or osteoporotic bone
These implants allow natural bone growth around them for better long-term fixation and durability in active patients.
Best suited for patients:
● Younger patients
● People with good bone quality & higher physical activity
Your orthopaedic surgeon chooses the best type based on X-rays, MRI, and your knee condition.
Unicondylar knee replacement is suitable only when arthritis affects one compartment of the knee instead of the whole joint. This allows surgeons to preserve healthy bone and ligaments while correcting only the damaged area.
Patients may be considered for partial knee replacement if they have:
● Pain on only one side of the knee (medial or lateral)
● Early-to-moderate arthritis with good remaining cartilage
● An intact ACL and strong ligaments for knee stability
● Normal knee alignment without severe deformity
● Typically aged above 40, though younger active patients can benefit too
● Knee pain when walking or climbing stairs
● Difficulty standing or getting up from a chair
● Localised stiffness in one part of the knee
● Poor relief from medications or physiotherapy
If arthritis has spread across multiple compartments, then total knee replacement is a more suitable choice instead of partial knee replacment.
This surgery uses minimally invasive partial knee replacement techniques, meaning smaller cuts, less tissue damage, and a faster recovery.
Surgical Steps
Here’s how the unicondylar knee replacement procedure is performed:
Step 1 – Anaesthesia given — spinal or general
Step 2 – A Small incision is made over the affected compartment
Step 3 – Damaged bone & cartilage removed from the arthritic area
Step 4 – Metal implant placed on the femur (thigh bone)
Step 5 – A plastic insert is fixed on the tibia (shin bone) for smooth motion
Step 6 – Incision closed and sterile dressing applied
Surgery Duration: 45–60 minutes — shorter than total knee replacement
Hospital Stay: Usually 1–2 days with early walking support
Because healthy tissues and ligaments are preserved, patients walk sooner and experience a more natural feel after unicondylar knee replacement.
Many patients choose this procedure because the recovery is quicker and the knee feels more natural than a full replacement.
Key advantages
● Smaller incision with minimal bone removal
● Less pain after surgery
● Faster rehabilitation and early return to routine
● Better knee bending and natural movement
● Lower risk of complications compared to full knee replacement
● Preserves healthy bone & ligaments
● Short hospital stay and quicker mobility
● Better option for active patients with limited arthritis
Most people return to normal activities 2–3 weeks earlier than after total knee replacement.
Like any surgery, partial knee replacement also has risks — though complications are uncommon when performed by an experienced orthopaedic surgeon.
Possible Risks
● Infection or delayed wound healing
● Blood clots in the leg (DVT)
● Implant loosening over time
● Arthritis progressing in other compartments
● Rare cases of knee instability
● Constant pain or stiffness
Regular follow-ups, proper physiotherapy, and careful after-surgery care significantly reduce long-term risk.
The recovery period is shorter and smoother compared to total knee replacement.
Recovery Timeline
| Time Progress | Activity/Recovery Status |
|---|---|
| Day 1–2 | Walk with support |
| Week 2–4 | Climb stairs slowly; less swelling |
| Month 2–3 | Return to normal routine activities |
| Month 4–6 | Long walks, light sports like swimming |
Post-Surgery Care
● Ice therapy for swelling
● Keep the incision clean and dry
● Physiotherapy to restore strength
● Avoid high-impact sports initially
With the right care plan, patients enjoy an active lifestyle after unicondylar knee replacement
Mild pain is common after unicondylar knee replacement, but it improves quickly with medicines, ice, and physiotherapy in the first couple of weeks.
Most unicondylar knee replacement implants last 15–20 years, depending on patient activity level and bone strength.
You can usually walk with support within 24 hours. Early walking helps reduce stiffness and speeds up recovery.
Unicondylar knee replacement treats only the damaged side, while total knee replacement replaces the whole joint when arthritis is widespread.
Yes, because unicondylar knee replacement preserves natural knee structures and allows faster return to an active lifestyle.
When arthritis damages only one part of your knee, unicondylar knee replacement is one of the most effective treatments. It offers faster recovery, lower pain, natural movement, and long-lasting results.
With early diagnosis, expert surgical care, and consistent physiotherapy, most patients return to walking, working, and enjoying life again — with confidence in every step.
Dr. Himanshu Gupta is a highly trusted and skilled orthopedic specialist, known for delivering expert care and personalized treatment.
+91 9650510275
orthodrhimanshugupta@gmail.com
Plot No. 15/16 Nyay Khand- 1, Near Indirapuram Public School, Indirapuram Ghaziabad- 201014 India
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