Partial Knee Replacement
A partial knee replacement involves replacing only the damaged part of the knee, rather than the entire joint.
Some patients develop arthritis in just one compartment, while the other two remain healthy. In these cases, a partial knee replacement may be an appropriate option.
During the procedure, the damaged compartment is removed and replaced with metal and plastic components designed to restore smooth movement.
A partial knee replacement is a complete and definitive operation — it is not a ‘halfway step’ toward a total knee replacement.
Most patients feel generally comfortable by around 4 weeks, with full recovery typically taking 4-6 months, although this varies between individuals.
Immediately after surgery
You will remain in hospital for two to five nights and pain relief will be provided either through a drip (intravenously) and/or in tablet form.
You will be able to put some weight through your knee immediately after surgery and gradually increase this as you feel able.
A physiotherapist will see you during your admission and give you exercises. Follow your physiotherapy plan to regain knee movement and strengthen throughout your recovery.
Rehabilitation options
You may choose to continue your early recovery in an inpatient rehabilitation facility. A rehabilitation coordinator will discuss options with you after surgery.
Many patients prefer to return home directly and continue their exercises independently or with outpatient physiotherapy.
Mobility and walking aids
Most patients use:
two crutches for approximately two weeks
then one crutch (opposite hand) for another one or two weeks.
Caring for your wounds
You will have a waterproof dressing over your incision, which must remain intact for two weeks. Your sutures are dissolving and do not need removal.
A small amount of blood staining is normal. If you notice excessive bleeding:
apply gentle pressure
rest and elevate the leg
apply ice.
Contact our rooms if you have any concerns.
Avoid baths and swimming until four weeks after your operation.
Managing your pain after surgery
Some swelling and pain are a normal part of recovery and will gradually improve.
In the early days:
rest and elevate the leg when seated
apply ice for 20–30 minutes every few hours
follow your physiotherapy exercises
take pain relief as prescribed.
You will be discharged with pain medication. For ongoing pain management, please arrange a review with your GP.
If you are worried about your level of pain, contact our rooms for reassurance and to rule out rare complications.
Recovery timeline
Full recovery generally takes between four to six months but can vary from person to person.
Returning to work
Desk‑based work: 3–4 weeks
Manual or labour‑intensive work: 6–8 weeks
Driving
Right knee surgery: approximately 4 weeks
Left knee surgery: approximately 3 weeks (manual car)
Dental work
Before any invasive dental work (fillings, extractions, etc.), advise your dentist that you have a joint replacement, as antibiotic cover is recommended. Your dentist will follow their own antibiotic protocol.
You may not need antibiotics for a routine scale and clean.
Risks and complications
Complications are uncommon but may include:
superficial wound infection
blood clots
persistent pain or instability.
Rare complications include:
injury to nerves or blood vessels
infection within the joint (peri‑prosthetic infection).
Over time a partial knee replacement can wear out or come loose, which may require further surgery.