Partial Knee Joint Replacement

If a single compartment of the knee is both worn-out and symptomatic a partial knee replacement is a surgical option to correct the pain and improve function.

The Patellofemoral Joint

The patello-femoral joint can be replaced in isolation with a polyethylene cap on the patella and a cobalt-chrome trochlea or patella groove inserted into the femur.

Medial and Lateral Partial Joint Replacement

If only the medial or lateral compartment of the knee is symptomatic and arthritic then a partial knee replacement can be performed. This surgery is only appropriate when the other compartments are well preserved.

The advantage of a partial joint replacement is that all the ligamentous structures of the knee are maintained. This allows the knee's kinematic or dynamic function to remain much closer to normal postoperatively. This can benefit the younger, lighter patient who is very active.