Knee Replacement
Total knee arthroplasty for chronic knee pain and mobility restoration.
Partial Knee Replacement (Unicompartmental Arthroplasty) in Istanbul
Partial knee replacement — also known as unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) — is a bone-conserving alternative to total knee replacement for patients whose arthritis is limited to one compartment of the knee. This procedure is offered at Memorial, Acıbadem, and American Hospital in Istanbul by orthopaedic surgeons with extensive experience in joint preservation and replacement surgery.
Unlike total knee replacement, which resurfaces the entire joint, partial knee replacement replaces only the damaged compartment — typically the medial (inner) compartment, which is the most commonly affected area. The healthy cartilage, bone, and cruciate ligaments in the remaining compartments are preserved, resulting in a more natural-feeling knee.
Benefits of Partial vs. Total Knee Replacement
- Smaller incision (7-10 cm vs. 15-20 cm)
- Preservation of healthy bone, cartilage, and ligaments
- More natural knee movement and proprioception
- Faster recovery and shorter hospital stay (2-3 days)
- Less post-operative pain and reduced blood loss
- Quicker return to daily activities and sports
Patient selection is crucial for optimal outcomes. Ideal candidates have isolated single-compartment osteoarthritis with intact cruciate ligaments, good range of motion, and a correctable deformity. Your surgeon will perform a thorough evaluation including weight-bearing X-rays and often MRI to determine your suitability.
Robotic-assisted partial knee replacement using the MAKO system is available, offering enhanced precision in implant positioning. The procedure can be performed under spinal anaesthesia, and most patients walk with crutches on the same day as surgery. Full recovery typically occurs within 4-8 weeks — significantly faster than total knee replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Am I a candidate for partial knee replacement?
You may be a candidate if your arthritis is limited to one compartment of the knee, your cruciate ligaments are intact, and you have a correctable deformity. Your surgeon will assess this through examination, X-rays, and MRI imaging.
Can a partial replacement be converted to total later?
Yes, if needed in the future, a partial knee replacement can be converted to a total knee replacement. The bone-conserving nature of the partial procedure actually makes any future revision surgery more straightforward.
How long does a partial knee replacement last?
Modern unicompartmental implants have excellent survivorship, with studies showing 90-95% still functioning well at 15 years. The longevity depends on factors including body weight, activity level, and the progression of arthritis in the remaining compartments.
Treatment Overview
Duration
1-1.5 hours
Recovery Time
4-8 weeks
Price Range
£3,500 - £6,000
Benefits
- Bone-conserving surgery preserving healthy cartilage and ligaments
- Smaller incision with less tissue disruption
- Faster recovery — most patients walk same day
- More natural knee feel with preserved proprioception
- Robotic-assisted (MAKO) option for enhanced precision
- 50-65% cost savings compared to UK partial knee replacement
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