PARTIAL KNEE REPLACEMENT

Partial Knee Replacement?

If degenerative disease is confined to only one side of the knee you may be a candidate for what is known as a partial knee replacement. Your surgeon will need to use his clinical judgement and interpret your scans in order to determine if this is a suitable option for you. 

What is a partial knee replacement?

As the name suggests, and as opposed to a total knee replacement only part of the knee is replaced with an implant. An incision is made over the knee and the diseased or damaged bone is removed from the joint.

What is the implant made from?

As with a total knee replacement, a partial one has an implant that is cemented to the femur and another component that is adhered to the tibia. In between both of these is a highly cross linked polyethylene plastic.

What happens after my surgery?

It will vary but patients will generally spend one to two days in hospital following the procedure. During this time the nursing staff and doctors as well as Mr Leonard will oversee your recovery to make sure you are as comfortable as possible. A physiotherapy programme is essential for a positive recovery and you will need to follow this both in the hospital and at home.

Will I have to get my knee replaced again once it “wears out?”

The technology behind knee replacements in terms of the components used have helped to significantly improve the longevity of knee prosthesis. Whether or not your knee will needed to be replaced is multifactorial and although some people may to have “revision” surgery the numbers are small.   

How long should I use pain medication?

This is different for each patient. Pain will be present after the operation but can be lessened with medications such as paracetamol and anti-inflammatories. During your hospital stay nursing staff will be present to monitor this. A general rule is that you should try to decrease your use of these medications as time passes.

​

When can I shower?

You will be advised by the nursing staff as to how soon you can shower when you are in the hospital. Waterproof dressing are used on all incisions to ensure that the surgical site remains clean and dry. You should avoid however getting too much water onto the dressing. After the dressing is removed at approximately one to two weeks you can shower normally with the incision exposed. Be sure to pat the skin over the incision and avoid rubbing it with a towel.

​

When can I drive?

This is very much dependent upon each individual. A good indicator is when you are able to sit, rise and rest comfortably in a chair. Being able to lift your leg from side to side is also a good test. Remember though that driving will require a significant amount of bending at your knee and a prolonged period of time in a car may cause pain. This will lessen over time but we advise caution with regard to this.

​

I am experiencing a lot of swelling, is this normal?

Due to the effect of gravity fluid can accumulate in the legs. It is common that this wasn’t present in the hospital but now is present when you return home. This is generally because you are being more active at home. In order to address this you should elevate your legs at night by lying on your back and placing pillows under the legs so that they are above your heart.

​

Compression stockings can be worn during the day to help. Maybe someone at home can help you put these on in the morning, use them during the day and then take them off at night. These can be purchased from most pharmacies if needed.

​

When can I return to work?

This is determined by your occupation. Your recovery period is important and a time off work will enable you to concentrate on your rehabilitation programme. It is good advice to take time off during the initial post-operative period.