According to the American College of Rheumatology, about 790,000 knee replacement procedures are done every year. Considering the daily strain we put on our knees throughout our lives, this statistic shouldn’t come as a surprise.

Whether you experienced a sports injury, or you suffer from advanced arthritis, a knee replacement surgery might be the solution for you. However, because the procedure involves major surgery it’s important to know the difference between a partial vs full knee replacement.

So what’s the difference between the two? And how do you choose the best one for your needs? In this guide, we’ll answer these questions so you know more about these two different procedures.

Understanding Knee Replacement Options

Knee replacement surgery involves removing damaged cartilage and bone from the knee joint and replacing it with artificial components. It’s one of the most common types of knee surgeries. You have knee replacement options:

  • Partial Knee Replacement is typically recommended for those with unicompartmental arthritis, where only one compartment of the knee is affected. This procedure is less invasive, resulting in quicker recovery times and preserving more of the natural knee structure.
  • Full Knee Replacement, or total knee arthroplasty, is generally recommended for patients with advanced arthritis or significant joint damage. This comprehensive approach addresses all compartments of the knee, often leading to substantial pain relief and improved mobility.

Remember it’s not a matter of which one is better or worse, rather, which one best fits your needs. 

Partial vs Full Knee Replacement: Factors to Consider

First, the extent of joint damage is crucial; a thorough evaluation determines whether a partial replacement is sufficient for localized damage or if a full replacement is necessary for more extensive issues.

Age and activity level also play significant roles; younger, more active patients might benefit from a partial replacement, allowing for a quicker return to physical activities. Seniors face a longer recovery time, and potential risks from any type of surgery if they’re over the age of sixty-five.

Additionally, health conditions such as obesity or diabetes can influence surgical options and recovery, making it essential to discuss these factors with a healthcare provider.

Finally, recovery time and rehabilitation vary. The knee replacement recovery time for partial replacements is much shorter.

If you get a double knee replacement, you can expect the recovery time to take longer and be more inconvenient since you can’t walk. However, you get full knee replacement benefits for both knees without going through multiple surgeries.

Consultation and Decision-Making Process

During your visit, the surgeon will assess your specific condition through diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays or MRIs. This imaging helps to determine the extent of joint damage and informs the surgical approach.

Moreover, discussing your personal health goals and expectations with your doctor is essential. Consider how each type of surgery aligns with your lifestyle and desired outcomes.

Need Knee Replacements? Contact Blackrock Orthopedics

We hope this guide helped you learn more about the difference between a partial vs full knee replacement. Here at Blackrock Orthopedics, our very own Dr. Corbett D Winegar has performed hundreds of knee surgeries since opening his practice.

This expertise is essential for choosing the knee surgery type that’s right for you. So if you want to learn more about how we can help you, get in touch with us today.