Partial Knee Replacement

4 July 2025

Overview

A partial knee replacement is a surgical procedure that replaces only the damaged part of the knee joint, preserving healthy bone and tissue. Unlike total knee replacement, partial knee replacement is ideal for patients with arthritis or damage limited to one compartment of the knee. The three main types of partial knee replacement are Oxford (medial unicompartmental), lateral unicompartmental, and patellofemoral.

Types of Partial Knee Replacement

Oxford (Medial Unicompartmental) Knee Replacement

This procedure replaces only the inner (medial) compartment of the knee, which is most commonly affected by osteoarthritis.
The Oxford Knee is a well-known implant designed for this purpose and is considered a gold standard for medial unicompartmental replacement.
Benefits include smaller incisions, faster recovery, and more natural knee movement compared to total knee replacement.

Lateral Unicompartmental Knee Replacement

This technique targets the outer (lateral) compartment of the knee when arthritis or damage is limited to this area.
Lateral unicompartmental replacements are less common than medial but equally effective in suitable patients, preserving healthy tissue elsewhere in the joint.

Patellofemoral Knee Replacement

This procedure replaces only the damaged cartilage behind the kneecap (patella) and the groove at the end of the thigh bone (femur).
Best for patients with arthritis or degeneration limited to the patellofemoral compartment, often caused by wear and tear, injury, or malalignment.

Conditions Leading to Partial Knee Replacement

Partial knee replacement may be recommended for:

Medial or Lateral Compartment Osteoarthritis: When arthritis is limited to one side of the knee (inner or outer).
Patellofemoral Arthritis: Arthritis affecting only the kneecap area.
Post-Traumatic Arthritis: Following injury but restricted to a single knee compartment.
Persistent Symptoms Despite Non-Surgical Treatment: Including pain, stiffness, and limited mobility that affect quality of life.

Symptoms That May Indicate You Need Partial Knee Replacement

Pain Localised to One Area: Most commonly inner knee, outer knee, or kneecap.
Swelling and Stiffness: Noticeable in the affected compartment, especially after activity.
Reduced Mobility: Difficulty walking, climbing stairs, or rising from a seated position.
Impact on Everyday Life: Ongoing discomfort despite medications or physiotherapy.

Benefits of Partial Knee Replacement

Faster Recovery and Shorter Hospital Stay
Smaller Incisions and Less Scarring
More Natural Knee Movement
Preservation of Healthy Bone and Ligaments

Why Choose The New Foscote Hospital?

Our Banbury-based orthopaedic surgeons are experts in all types of partial knee replacement, including Oxford medial unicompartmental, lateral unicompartmental, and patellofemoral procedures. We offer personalised assessment and advanced surgical techniques to help you regain mobility and reduce pain.

Next Steps:

If you’re struggling with ongoing knee pain or have been told you might benefit from a partial knee replacement, contact The New Foscote Hospital today to book a consultation with our specialist team.