What is a partial knee replacement?
There partial knee replacement (or unicompartmental prosthesis) is a surgical alternative to total prosthesis when osteoarthritis affects only one part of the joint. Most often, this is the internal (medial) compartment, but it can also involve the external or patellofemoral compartment.
Unlike a total prosthesis which replaces the entire knee, the partial denture Preserves ligaments, healthy cartilage, and much of the natural anatomy. It better respects the biomechanics of the joint, which promotes faster recovery and a joint feel closer to the original knee.
Dr. Coulin offers this option whenever the conditions are right, as it is a modern, conservative and effective solution for treating localized osteoarthritis of the knee.
Who is it suitable for?
There partial knee replacement is intended for patients with limited wear and tear, with a knee that is still largely functional. It is particularly indicated when there are:
- A localized osteoarthritis single compartment (internal, external or patellofemoral).
- A ligament stability preserved, particularly an intact anterior cruciate ligament (ACL).
- A satisfactory mobility of the joint.
- A correct knee alignment or easily correctable.
- Moderate to vigorous activity, without excessive overload.
This surgery can be suitable for both young patients, wishing to delay a total prosthesis, than to older patients, seeking rapid recovery and quality functional return.
What are the advantages of a partial denture?
Compared to a total prosthesis, the unicompartmental prosthesis offers several advantages:
- An intervention less invasive, with a reduced incision.
- A preservation of healthy structures of the knee (ligaments, preserved cartilage).
- A faster recovery with an earlier return to autonomy.
- A more natural joint feel, with smooth walking and less apprehension.
- Less bleeding, post-operative pain and risk of complications.
- An intervention that facilitates a possible future revision, because it leaves a large part of the joint intact.
So, the partial knee replacement allows you to combine efficiency, safety and preservation of joint function.
How does the procedure with Dr. Coulin take place ?
The installation of a partial denture is performed under locoregional or general anesthesia. It is a minimally invasive surgery, using reduced incisions and maximum tissue preservation.
On average, the procedure lasts about an hour. The patient is up within a few hours and usually returns home within 48 hours.
Dr. Coulin uses modern surgical guidance techniques and, when necessary, 3D imaging-assisted planningThis precision guarantees optimal positioning of the implant, perfectly adapted to the morphology and biomechanics of each patient's knee.
What are the post-operative consequences ?
The aftermath after a partial knee replacement are generally simple and quick:
- Weight bearing is permitted immediately after surgery.
- The gradual resumption of walking takes place in the following days.
- There rehabilitation starts very early, with a targeted program to recover mobility, strengthen muscles and re-educate proprioception.
Most patients return to an active life quickly, with a gradual return to sporting activities between 2 and 3 months, depending on the profile and individual motivation.
What results can you expect ?
In well-selected patients, the partial knee replacement offers very satisfactory results:
- A clear and lasting reduction in pain.
- A significant improvement in movement quality.
- A feeling closer to the natural knee than with a total prosthesis.
- A lifespan comparable to total prostheses, in the right indications.
Satisfaction rates are high, and most patients regain smooth mobility, complete independence, and good confidence in their joint.
A tailor-made approach, on a case-by-case basis
The choice between a partial denture or a total prosthesis always depends on a complete assessment: analysis of symptoms, precise imaging and patient expectations.
Dr. Coulin favors preserving natural structures whenever possible. However, he only recommends a partial denture when it provides a reliable, durable, and long-term solution.
Do you suffer from localized osteoarthritis of the knee?
Dr. Coulin will see you for a consultation in Geneva to assess your situation, analyze your tests and determine if a partial knee replacement may be the ideal solution in your case.
Thanks to personalized care and cutting-edge surgical techniques, he will guide you towards a rapid, secure and lasting recovery.
