If your knee pain is affecting only one part of the joint, partial knee replacement may be a better option than total knee replacement. Dr. Shailendra Patil — Mumbai’s leading orthopedic and robotic joint replacement surgeon, specialises in partial knee replacement surgery, helping patients recover faster, preserve more of their natural knee, and return to an active life sooner.
What Is Partial Knee Replacement?
Partial knee replacement, also called uncompartmental knee replacement, replaces only the damaged part of the knee joint — not the entire knee. The knee has three compartments medial (inner), lateral (outer), and patellofemoral (front). In many patients, arthritis or damage affects only one of these compartments. Replacing only that compartment preserves the healthy bone, cartilage, and ligaments in the rest of the knee.
This results in a more natural feeling knee, less blood loss during surgery, a shorter hospital stay, and significantly faster recovery compared to total knee replacement.
Who is a Candidate for Partial Knee Replacement?
Not every patient with knee pain needs a total knee replacement. Partial knee replacement is suitable for patients who:
- Have arthritis or damage confined to one compartment of the knee
- Experience pain on one specific side of the knee — inner or outer
- Have intact cruciate ligaments (ACL and PCL)
- Have not responded adequately to physiotherapy, medication, or injections
Are seeking a more active lifestyle after surgery
| Partial Knee Replacement | Total Knee Replacement | |
|---|---|---|
| Bone removed | Only damaged compartment | Entire knee surface |
| Recovery time | 3 to 4 weeks | 6 to 8 weeks |
| Hospital stay | 1 to 2 days | 3 to 5 days |
| Natural feel | More natural | Less natural |
| Blood loss | Minimal | Moderate |
| Suitable for | Single compartment damage | Widespread arthritis |
How Dr. Shailendra Patil Performs Partial Knee Replacement
Dr. Shailendra Patil uses minimally invasive techniques for partial knee replacement meaning smaller incisions, less disruption to surrounding tissue, and a significantly faster recovery.
The procedure involves removing the damaged cartilage and bone from the affected compartment only, then placing a precisely fitted implant that restores smooth joint movement. The healthy parts of the knee including the cruciate ligaments are left completely intact.
Most patients are able to walk with support on the same day of surgery and return home within 48 hours.
Why Choose Dr. Shailendra Patil for Partial Knee Replacement in Mumbai?
Dr. Shailendra Patil is one of very few knee replacement surgeons in Mumbai with dedicated expertise in partial knee replacement. He was among the first surgeons in Mumbai to introduce uncompartmentalized knee replacement as a routine procedure giving patients a bone-sparing alternative to total knee replacement.