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Once you’ve decided to have a knee replacement, you might have a choice between total and partial replacement surgery. Here’s some insight into the differences between the two and how to make the right choice for your needs.
Very often, the most difficult part of having a knee replacement is deciding to move forward with the procedure. Many people agonize over whether to have the surgery, when to schedule it, and how long their recovery might be.
Once you’re ready to take action to address the pain and limited mobility that come with a damaged knee, your next choice will be whether you want to pursue a total or partial knee replacement.
Robert J. Otto, MD, has extensive experience in all forms of knee replacement procedures. He’s happy to assess your joints and explain the differences between all available options. Having a trusted provider who offers personalized guidance can make it easier to choose the right course of action.
So, let’s delve into the differences between total and partial knee replacement.
The chance for a knee upgrade
If you’re considering a knee replacement, it’s because some of the components of your knee joint have become damaged or worn down. Perhaps arthritis has caused widespread damage within your joint, or worn so much of your cartilage away that you’re experiencing the pain of bone-on-bone contact.
In some cases, a lifetime of physical activity has caused problems within your knee. Some people struggle with their weight and develop knee issues after years of carrying excess pounds.
No matter what led you to consider a knee replacement, one way to think of the procedure is as a joint upgrade. If you’ve been living with debilitating pain and loss of mobility, a knee replacement can absolutely improve your quality of life.
The difference between total and partial knee replacement
Your knee is divided into three major parts: the lateral (outside), medial (inside), and patella (kneecap). In some cases, only one area of your knee has sustained damage, and you may only need surgical repair of that area. This would be a partial knee replacement.
Benefits of a partial knee replacement include a shorter surgery (less time under anesthesia), shorter hospital stay, and a faster recovery. Having a partial knee replacement can also allow you to be more active than with a total knee replacement.
It’s important to note that very few patients are good candidates for a partial knee replacement. In most cases, more than one component of the knee joint is damaged and needs repair. With this approach, the ends of your thighbone and shinbone are reshaped, and the whole joint is resurfaced.
In many cases, Dr. Otto can perform a partial or total knee replacement using minimally invasive surgical techniques, as opposed to an open surgery that requires a large incision.
How to choose the right surgical approach
When you rely on Dr. Otto for your knee replacement, you receive the benefit of his extensive training and experience. During your consultation, you’ll discuss the extent of your knee damage and explore all available treatment options, including what to expect if you decide to forego treatment.
A multitude of things come into play when choosing whether to have a total or partial knee replacement. Your age, weight, and overall health are all important factors. Dr. Otto takes the time to get to know your unique needs and helps you make an informed choice.
If you’re ready to learn more about how a knee replacement can transform your life, we’re ready to meet with you. Book your appointment with Dr. Otto by calling us during normal business hours or using our online booking tool to schedule an appointment at one of our locations in Nashville, Murfreesboro, or Cookeville, Tennessee.