If you have been living with knee pain, you might be considering knee replacement surgery in Singapore as a viable solution. However, did you know that not all knee replacements are the same?
In this article, we will explore the advantages of partial knee replacement and help you determine if you are a suitable candidate. Keep reading to find out more.
The Advantages of Partial Knee Replacement
Partial knee replacements aim to preserve as much healthy tissue and bone in your knee as possible, making them an excellent choice for the right candidates.
1. Precision With Robotic Navigation
During a partial knee replacement, robotic navigation systems assist the surgeon in making precise bone cuts, ensuring minimal disruption to the native bone. This not only enhances the longevity of your implant but also contributes to a quicker recovery.
2. Faster Recovery and Less Blood Loss
Compared to a total knee replacement, partial knee replacements generally have faster recovery times. With a smaller incision and less disruption to the knee's natural anatomy, you will experience less pain and a shorter hospital stay. Additionally, there is typically less blood loss during the surgery, reducing the risk of complications.
Learn more: Myths About Total Knee Replacements
Are You a Candidate for Partial Knee Replacement?
It is recommended to consult with an orthopaedic surgeon in Singapore for an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan. These are the key criteria when it comes to assessing one’s suitability for the procedure:
1. Symptoms Isolated to One Knee Compartment
In cases where the damage and discomfort are localised to just one knee compartment, it indicates that the rest of your knee joint is relatively healthy and functional. This is a key consideration because partial knee replacement is designed to preserve as much of your natural knee anatomy as possible. By limiting the procedure to the affected compartment, healthy parts of your knee joint are left intact, minimising trauma and post-operative pain.
2. Intact Knee Ligaments
Healthy ligaments contribute to the overall stability of the knee joint, helping to maintain proper alignment and prevent abnormal movements. For a partial knee replacement to work effectively, it is essential that the surrounding ligaments are in good condition to prevent compromising the stability and longevity of the implant. If your ligaments are healthy and functional, it is more likely that you will achieve the desired outcome, with improved knee function, less post-operative pain, and a quicker recovery.
3. Good Bone Density
During a partial knee replacement, the orthopaedic surgeon will replace the damaged part of your knee joint with an artificial implant, which is typically made of metal and plastic. To ensure the longevity and stability of this implant, it needs a solid foundation to attach to. Good bone density provides a secure anchor for the implant, reducing the risk of loosening or implant-related complications. It also supports the integration and long-term success of the implant by reducing stress on the surrounding bone and promoting optimal healing.
4. No Inflammatory Arthritis
Inflammatory arthritis can cause ongoing inflammation in the joint, leading to the breakdown of cartilage and surrounding tissues. This can negatively impact the longevity and stability of the implant in a partial knee replacement. It also increases the risk of post-operative complications as the inflamed joint may not heal properly, leading to pain, stiffness, and a compromised surgical outcome. Hence, patients with inflammatory arthritis are usually not considered a suitable candidate for a partial knee replacement.
5. Good Range of Movement in the Knee
Range of motion refers to the extent to which you can flex and extend your knee joint, allowing it to move through its full arc of motion. When you have a good range of motion before surgery, it is often easier to regain that range after the procedure. This can lead to a smoother recovery and quicker rehabilitation.
When a Total Knee Replacement is Necessary
Scenarios where a total knee replacement might be necessary include:
1. Previous Knee Injury
If you have had prior knee surgeries, scar tissue from those procedures can complicate the partial replacement.
2. Bone Deformities
Patients with bone deformities in the knee joint, such as bowing or twisting, may not be ideal candidates for partial replacements.
3. Restricted Range of Movement
Patients with limited knee range of movement might not benefit from a partial knee replacement.
Learn more: Partial vs Total Knee Replacements
Reclaim Your Active Lifestyle with Knee Replacement Surgery
Partial knee replacement surgery is an alternative for those seeking relief from knee pain while preserving healthy tissue and bone. To determine if you are a suitable candidate, consult with an orthopaedic surgeon in Singapore.
Dr Kannan Kaliyaperumal at the Specialist Orthopaedic Centre can evaluate your condition and recommend the right course of action.
Get in touch with us.
