What is the difference between total and partial knee replacement?
Total replacement resurfaces damaged knee joint areas; partial replacement treats one compartment in selected patients. It does not remove the entire knee bone. Choice depends on the pattern of damage, ligament stability and symptoms, not age or incision size alone.
Details
When partial replacement may fit
It may suit arthritis confined to one compartment with suitable ligaments and the rest of the joint preserved. Recovery can be faster, but arthritis can progress elsewhere and further surgery may be needed. It does not suit every deformity or arthritis pattern.
When total replacement may be preferable
More widespread damage or deformity may require total resurfacing. Both procedures carry risks such as infection, clots, stiffness and persistent pain. Neither guarantees a completely normal-feeling knee.
Prepare for the discussion
Explain how pain affects walking, sleep and work, and which nonsurgical treatments were tried. Ask about the imaging, reason for the recommendation, expected function, rehabilitation and revision risk. Examination and shared decision-making guide the choice.
Related reading: How long does a knee replacement last, and what affects its lifespan?.