UNICOMPARTMENTAL KNEE REPLACEMENT
Partial Knee Replacement
Treat the worn compartment while preserving healthy joint structures.
When might this be considered?
One joint compartment is significantly worn while the remaining areas are suitable for preservation.
Knee stability and deformity are assessed to determine suitability.
Other treatments provide limited relief and replacement is appropriate after assessment.
How is the surgery performed?

Confirm localized wear
The pattern of wear is checked to confirm that the remaining compartments can be retained.

Prepare the damaged surfaces
Only the femoral and tibial surfaces in the affected compartment are prepared.

Place partial replacement components
Metal components and a wear-resistant bearing are fitted to recreate the contact surfaces.

Check stability and movement
Soft-tissue balance and joint movement are assessed before wound closure.
AI-assisted illustrations show a simplified surgical sequence, not actual surgery. Procedures, instruments and implants vary with each patient’s condition.
Healthy bone and cartilage, along with suitable ligaments, are preserved to avoid unnecessary tissue removal.
Exercises are adjusted to pain, swelling and strength, while the remaining joint compartments are monitored.
WATCH & UNDERSTAND
Patient education video
Partial knee replacement
You can read the illustrated guide above while the video is being prepared.
Explore the video library →Patient education video coming here soon.
HTO, partial or total knee replacement: how is the choice made?
| Treatment | Main approach | Assessment focus |
|---|---|---|
| HTO joint preservation | Realign the leg while preserving the native joint surfaces. | Inner-knee wear with bow-leg alignment; other compartments and activity needs are assessed. |
| Partial knee replacement | Replace one damaged compartment. | Wear is confined to one compartment and the remaining joint and ligaments are suitable. |
| Total knee replacement | Reconstruct more extensively damaged joint surfaces. | More widespread degeneration, pain or deformity affecting daily life. |
The choice depends on imaging, ligament stability, the distribution of wear and everyday needs. No single operation suits everyone.
Ongoing support through recovery
- Wound and symptom careGuidance on wound monitoring, medicines and when to contact your medical team.
- Activity matched to your progressExercises are adjusted to pain, swelling and strength, while the remaining joint compartments are monitored.
- Follow-up and your next stepsCare and training are adjusted using examination results and your everyday goals.
Questions you may have
Is partial knee replacement suitable for everyone?
No. The distribution of wear, ligament stability and deformity must meet the requirements.
Could I need a total knee replacement later?
Yes. Further degeneration in other compartments, implant loosening or infection may require additional treatment or revision.
Find the treatment that fits your needs
Bring your symptoms, imaging and everyday goals to discuss with Dr. Chen.
This page provides general patient education. Treatment, surgery time and care arrangements are determined through individual clinical assessment.