Unicompartmental knee replacement, also known as partial knee replacement, is a minimally invasive surgical procedure designed to replace only the damaged portion of the knee joint—typically due to osteoarthritis—while preserving the healthy bone, cartilage, and ligaments. It is a popular alternative to total knee replacement for patients whose arthritis is confined to a single compartment of the knee: medial (inner), lateral (outer), or patellofemoral (front).
Unlike a total knee replacement that replaces the entire joint surface, a unicompartmental procedure targets only the affected area, offering a less invasive option with a shorter recovery time and a more natural-feeling knee function.
Understanding the Knee Joint and Compartmental Arthritis
The human knee is composed of three compartments:
- Medial Compartment – The inner side of the knee.
- Lateral Compartment – The outer side of the knee.
- Patellofemoral Compartment – The area between the kneecap and femur.
Osteoarthritis may affect just one of these compartments initially. When the damage is limited and the rest of the joint is healthy, a unicompartmental replacement becomes a suitable option.
Candidates for this procedure usually have:
- Localized arthritis (most commonly in the medial compartment)
- Intact ligaments, particularly the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL)
- Sufficient range of motion
- No significant knee deformity
Procedure Overview
Preoperative Evaluation
Before surgery, a thorough assessment is conducted including:
- X-rays and/or MRI scans to evaluate cartilage loss and compartment involvement.
- Physical examination to assess range of motion, alignment, and ligament stability.
Surgical Technique
The procedure typically follows these steps:
- Anesthesia – Usually performed under spinal or general anesthesia.
- Incision and Access – A small incision is made over the affected compartment of the knee.
- Bone Preparation – Only the damaged cartilage and a small amount of underlying bone are removed.
- Implant Placement – A metal and plastic prosthesis is implanted to resurface the joint.
- Closure – The wound is closed, and a sterile dressing is applied.
The entire surgery may take between 1 to 2 hours.
Advantages of Unicompartmental Knee Replacement
Unicompartmental knee replacement offers several benefits over total knee replacement, particularly for the right candidate:
1. Minimally Invasive Approach
The surgical exposure is smaller, which generally results in:
- Less blood loss
- Lower risk of infection
- Reduced pain and swelling
2. Faster Recovery
Patients often walk on the same day or within 24 hours and may resume most daily activities within a few weeks.
3. Preservation of Healthy Tissue
By sparing ligaments and unaffected cartilage, patients retain more natural knee motion and sensation.
4. Improved Functionality
Many recipients report the knee feels more "natural" than after a total knee replacement.
5. Cost-Effectiveness Abroad
When done through medical tourism channels, patients may access high-quality care at a lower price, without compromising outcomes.
Ideal Candidates for the Procedure
While unicompartmental knee replacement has notable benefits, not every patient with knee arthritis is suitable. The best candidates typically:
- Are over 50 years old
- Have localized arthritis in a single compartment
- Are not significantly overweight
- Have a stable and aligned knee
- Have not undergone previous major knee surgeries
Misdiagnosed or advanced arthritis in multiple compartments could lead to persistent symptoms or poor outcomes post-surgery.
Risks and Considerations
As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications:
- Infection
- Blood clots
- Implant loosening or wear over time
- Progression of arthritis in other compartments
- Need for revision surgery (conversion to total knee replacement)
Patients should also consider the surgeon’s experience and hospital infrastructure when seeking care internationally, especially when evaluating recovery protocols and implant quality.
Recovery Timeline
Recovery from a unicompartmental knee replacement is typically quicker and less painful than from a total knee procedure.
Week 1–2:
- Walking with assistance
- Basic physiotherapy starts
- Pain and swelling management
Week 3–6:
- Increased range of motion
- Muscle strengthening
- Walking without aid by the end of this period
Week 6–12:
- Return to most daily activities
- Light recreational activities (cycling, swimming)
Full recovery often occurs within 3–4 months, with some patients returning to work within 4–6 weeks, depending on job demands.
Popular Medical Tourism Destinations for Knee Replacement
Many patients travel internationally for unicompartmental knee replacement to access:
- Affordable pricing
- Reduced wait times
- Experienced surgeons in high-volume centers
- Modern hospital facilities with international standards
Top destinations often include countries in Southeast Asia, Eastern Europe, and Latin America, where quality of care meets or exceeds that of domestic systems for a fraction of the cost. However, prospective patients should ensure the hospital is equipped with modern imaging and joint replacement infrastructure, and that postoperative rehab services are available.
Choosing the Right Facility and Surgeon
When seeking unicompartmental knee replacement abroad, patients and facilitators should assess:
- Surgeon’s Qualifications – Board certification, fellowship training, and volume of procedures performed.
- Hospital Accreditation – Look for internationally recognized certifications for safety and hygiene.
- Postoperative Care – Ensure physical therapy is part of the recovery plan.
- Implant Type – Request details on the prosthesis used and its longevity.
- Cost Transparency – Understand what the quoted package includes (surgery, stay, medication, rehab, etc.).
As medical tourism grows, transparency and patient education remain key in ensuring successful outcomes.
In conclusion, Unicompartmental knee replacement offers a promising, less invasive alternative to total knee surgery for patients with arthritis confined to a single knee compartment. With faster recovery, better preservation of knee function, and increased affordability abroad, it has become a top choice in medical tourism. However, patient selection, expert surgical technique, and structured aftercare remain critical to achieving the best results.
If you are considering knee surgery or dealing with a sports-related injury, we highly recommend Professor Etienne Cavaignac. He is a distinguished orthopaedic surgeon specializing in knee surgery and sports traumatology, based in Toulouse, France. Professor Cavaignac practices at the Toulouse University Hospital, where he is known for delivering advanced, patient-focused care using the latest surgical techniques.
Renowned for his expertise in complex knee procedures and trusted by both professional athletes and active individuals, Professor Cavaignac offers world-class treatment in a leading medical environment.
Take the next step toward recovery with confidence. Visit his official website to learn more or request a consultation: www.professeur-cavaignac.com
