Knee Arthritis Treatment: Differences Between Partial and Total Knee Replacement Surgery in Delhi
By Dr. Anant Kumar Tiwari- Orthopaedic Surgeon Delhi 28-02-2026 9
Knee replacement surgery is a well-established and highly effective treatment for individuals suffering from chronic knee pain due to arthritis, injury, or degenerative joint disease. When medications, physiotherapy, and lifestyle modifications fail to provide relief, surgical intervention helps restore mobility, reduce pain, and improve quality of life. However, many patients often ask whether they should undergo Partial Knee Replacement Surgery Delhi or opt for Total Knee Replacement Surgery in Delhi. Understanding the differences between these procedures can help patients make an informed decision.
Understanding Knee Joint Anatomy:
The knee joint is divided into three compartments. These include the medial compartment (inner side), the lateral compartment (outer side), and the patellofemoral compartment (front portion where the kneecap meets the thigh bone). Osteoarthritis or damage may affect one or multiple compartments. When only a single compartment is involved, partial knee replacement may be sufficient. In contrast, damage involving multiple compartments generally requires total knee replacement.
What is Total Knee Replacement?
Total knee replacement, also known as total knee arthroplasty, involves resurfacing all three compartments of the knee. The damaged cartilage and a small portion of bone from the femur, tibia, and sometimes the patella are removed. These are replaced with specially designed metal and polyethylene implants that replicate natural joint movement.
This procedure is recommended for patients with advanced arthritis, significant deformity, severe pain, and reduced joint function. It also helps correct alignment issues and provides long-lasting pain relief.
What is Partial Knee Replacement?
Partial knee replacement, or unicompartmental knee replacement, is performed when arthritis is limited to one compartment of the knee. Only the affected area is replaced, while healthy cartilage, ligaments such as the ACL and PCL, and the remaining bone are preserved.
There are different types of partial knee replacement, including medial, lateral, and patellofemoral replacements, depending on the location of joint damage. This procedure is ideal for patients with localized osteoarthritis, stable ligaments, and good joint alignment.
Key Differences Between the Two Procedures:
Partial knee replacement is less invasive, involves a smaller incision, and results in less trauma to surrounding tissues. Hospital stay is usually shorter, and many patients are discharged within 1–2 days. Recovery is faster, often within 4–6 weeks, with reduced post-operative pain and swelling. Patients frequently report a more natural-feeling knee and improved range of motion.
Total knee replacement, on the other hand, addresses extensive joint damage and offers long-term durability. Although recovery may take 3–6 months, it provides excellent stability, correction of deformity, and significant pain relief. It is considered the gold standard for severe arthritis.
Benefits and Limitations:
Partial knee replacement offers quicker recovery, minimal scarring, and lower complication rates. However, it may not be suitable for all patients. If arthritis progresses in other compartments, revision to total knee replacement may be required in the future.
Total knee replacement is more comprehensive and suitable for advanced disease. It has a high success rate and long implant longevity, often lasting 15–20 years or more.
Choosing the Right Option:
The decision between these procedures depends on several factors, including the extent of joint damage, patient age, activity level, ligament stability, overall health, and previous surgical history. Imaging tests such as X-rays and MRI, along with clinical evaluation, help determine the best surgical approach.
Recovery and Rehabilitation:
Both surgeries require structured physiotherapy and rehabilitation. Patients undergoing partial replacement usually return to daily activities sooner, while those undergoing total replacement require a longer recovery period to regain strength and balance. Low-impact exercises such as walking, cycling, and swimming are encouraged in both cases.
Conclusion:
Both partial knee replacement and total knee replacement surgeries are highly successful in treating knee arthritis and restoring mobility. Partial replacement is suitable for selected patients with early disease, whereas total replacement remains the most reliable option for advanced joint damage. Consulting an experienced orthopaedic surgeon delhi is essential to determine the most appropriate treatment. With the right choice and proper rehabilitation, patients can achieve long-term pain relief, improved mobility, and a better quality of life.
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