Image of doctors performing partial knee replacement surgery in operating room.
X-ray image of a knee that has had partial knee replacement surgery.
Image of partial knee implant and illustration of knee joint.

What is Partial Knee Surgery?

Partial Knee Replacement surgery is performed for isolated one compartment arthritis of the knee. The most common is the medial compartment. Surgery is aimed at restoring function and reducing pain.

In those whom it is indicated, this type of surgery can be less invasive than a total knee replacement, with quicker recovery and better function. However, it should only be undertaken when all non-operative measures have failed and the patient is substantially pained and disabled in every day activities.

Success Rate & Risks

Patients undergoing Partial Knee Replacement surgery have a 90% success rate with good pain relief function and are satisfied. Implants have a 95% 10-yr. survival rate (i.e 95% of patients still have knee in place and functioning well at 10 years). After this time people start to wear or loosen their joints depending on usage.

Over time, the rest of the knee can become arthritic and may also indicate the need for conversion to a total knee replacement. The following complications can occur:

  • 5% chance of ongoing pain from the knee due to an unknown cause.
  • 5% chance of complications which can occur around time surgery.

Partial Knee Replacement

Refer a Patient

Image of woman copying surgery pre-op instructions into a notebook.

Partial Knee Replacement Surgery Pre-Op Instructions

Prior to surgery, all patients should have attended the pre-opertive assessment clinic at Hotel Dieu Hospital in Kingston. This will be arranged by Dr Wood’s office.

Check the date and hospital you are having your surgery. Surgeries can be performed at the Hotel Dieu Hospital or Kingston General Hospital.

All information pertaining to your surgery should be read. Copies of documentation are available in our Patient Resources section.

The day before surgery:

  • No food after midnight
  • No smoking
  • No alcohol
  • Check the time and place of arrival at Hospital
  • Prepare your belongings for hospital stay
  • Include medications, toiletries, clothing ,housecoat and slippers
  • Health Cards, Insurance Cards
  • Shower with the soap provided
  • Remove all nail polish and jewelry
  • Do not bring valuables to hospital

Joint Replacement Surgery

Image of patients walking on treadmills for rehabilitation after partial knee replacement surgery.

Partial Knee Replacement Surgery Rehab Instructions

Patients having partial knee replacement are often mobilizing the same day as their operation and are typically full weight bearing. Your hospital stay will typically be 2 to 3 days and prior to discharge you will be walking independently, managing stairs, dressing and toileting yourself.

Precautions for the first 6 weeks include:

  • No Driving
  • No weight training
  • No crossing legs
  • Stationary Cycling allowed
  • Plenty of Walking

Knee Replacement Rehab Guide