An Expert’s Guide to Partial Knee Replacement by an Experienced Orthopaedic Surgeon in Singapore

Unicompartmental Knee Arthroplasty

Alps Orthopaedic Centre’s Medical Director and Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, Dr Jerry Chen has observed a growing demand for knee-related operations in recent years. One of the prime reasons is Singapore’s population has embraced a more physically active lifestyle lately. Although the upward trend in exercise is heartening, but it carries a heightened risk of joint impact, potentially leading to knee damage.

Thankfully with the option of undergoing partial knee replacement in Singapore, more and more patients are able to play tennis and golf or go hiking and diving on holidays. In this blog article, Dr Chen, who has amassed over 15 years of experience in Orthopaedic Surgery, will provide a concise overview of what patients should know about partial knee replacement.

What Is Partial Knee Replacement Surgery?

部分膝关节置换手术

Partial knee replacement surgery, also known as unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA), is a minimally invasive procedure. This surgery is specifically designed for patients suffering from conditions, such as advanced arthritis, that are confined to a single compartment of the knee. 

The procedure replaces only the damaged or diseased portion of the knee joint with a prosthetic implant and preserves the healthy parts of the knee. By maintaining most of the knee’s natural structure, patients often experience more natural knee movement post-surgery. This is because partial knee replacement helps to retain the knee’s original ligaments, including the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), which is crucial for the knee’s stability and function. By targeting the specific damaged area, partial knee replacement offers an effective solution for pain relief and knee function while preserving the undamaged parts of the knee.

Who Should Get Partial Knee Replacement Surgery?

Partial knee replacement is suitable for patients with the following traits:

  • Non-Surgical Treatments Have Proven to Be Ineffective: Patients who continue to experience severe, long-term knee pain despite non-surgical treatments like medication, physical therapy, or injections may benefit from partial knee replacement.
  • Localised Osteoarthritis: The procedure is ideal for individuals with osteoarthritis limited to one compartment of the knee, typically the medial (inner) compartment.
  • Intact Ligaments: Candidates should have healthy knee ligaments, particularly the Anterior Cruciate Ligament, as it plays a significant role in the knee’s overall stability.
  • Good Range of Motion: Individuals with a reasonable range of motion in their knee are more suited for this surgery, as it indicates that the knee’s remaining parts can function well with the implant
  • General Health: The patient should be in good overall health and able to undergo the stress of surgery and anaesthesia.

Benefits Versus Risks of Partial Knee Replacement

BenefitsRisks

Extensive research has proven that partial knee replacement has the potential to boost a patient’s quality of life through the following mechanisms:

  • Increased Knee Joint Mobility: Preserves the natural structure and range of motion of the knee, enhancing mobility and functionality after surgery. This facilitates a gradual return to normal activities for patients.
  • Effective Pain Relief: Directly addresses the source of pain, providing significant pain relief.
  • Less Invasive Than Total Knee Replacement: Involves smaller incisions and less bone removal, leading to faster recovery and more natural knee function compared to total knee replacement.

As with any surgical procedure, partial knee replacement carries minor possible risks, including:

  • Infection: There is a small risk of infection at the surgical site (<0.5%), which can complicate recovery and may require additional treatment.
  • Blood Clots: total knee replacement can form in the legs (deep vein thrombosis) and can be life-threatening if they travel to the lungs (pulmonary embolism).
  • Implant Loosening or Failure: The implant’s survivorship is 80% at 20 years or more.

Nonetheless, with proper patient selection, surgical technique, and postoperative protocols, the risk of complications can be minimised. Rest assured that partial knee replacement is considered a safe and effective treatment for localised knee osteoarthritis when performed by an experienced orthopaedic surgeon like Alps Orthopaedic Centre’s Dr Chen.

Moreover, it is crucial to understand that partial knee replacement is not suitable for every patient. The choice to proceed with the surgery should be made in collaboration with an orthopaedic surgeon, considering each patient’s specific condition and personal preferences.

How to Prepare for the Surgery?

partial knee replacement surgery xray image

Preparation for partial knee replacement surgery involves several important steps:

  • Medical Evaluation: A thorough medical evaluation, including imaging tests like X-rays or MRIs, is conducted to confirm the extent of arthritis and determine the suitability for partial knee replacement.
  • Preoperative Instructions: Your surgeon will provide specific preoperative instructions, including any necessary adjustments to medications. This may involve stopping certain medications that can increase the risk of bleeding.
  • Arrange Postoperative Care: It is essential to arrange for postoperative care, include scheduling physical therapy appointments. Having a support system in place can significantly aid in a smooth recovery.
  • Fasting: Patients are typically instructed to fast for a certain period before the surgery to ensure an empty stomach during anaesthesia.

Following these preparation steps can help ensure a successful surgery and smooth recovery.

What Happens During the Surgery?

Partial knee replacement surgery involves several key steps:

  • Sterilisation and Anaesthesia: The surgical site is sterilised, and anaesthesia is administered to minimise discomfort.
  • Incision: A small incision is made over the affected part of the knee to access the damaged compartment.
  • Removal of Damaged Tissue: The surgeon removes the damaged bone and cartilage from the targeted compartment using specialised instruments.
  • Implant Placement: The prosthetic components are fitted into the knee. These components are designed to mimic the natural shape and movement of the knee joint.
  • Closure: The wound is closed.

The entire surgical procedure typically takes about 45 to 60 minutes. The minimally invasive approach helps to reduce the surgical time and the extent of tissue disruption.

Recovery and Post-surgical Care

Post-surgery recovery involves several components:

  • Hospital Stay: Patients usually stay in the hospital for a day, depending on their individual progress.
  • Early Mobilisation: Early mobilisation and walking with the help of a physical therapist are encouraged to promote healing and regain knee function.
  • Pain Management: Pain management through prescribed medications helps to eliminate postoperative pain and discomfort.
  • Physical Therapy: A structured physical therapy programme is essential for regaining strength, flexibility, and function in the knee.
  • Follow-Up Appointments: Regular follow-up appointments with an orthopaedic surgeon are necessary to monitor the healing process and the stability of the implant.

By adhering to the recommended recovery and care guidelines, many patients can achieve optimal outcomes and return to their normal activities sooner.

Get Partial Knee Replacement Surgery in Singapore

踝关节重建手术

In Singapore, partial knee replacement surgery is available at orthopaedic specialist clinics, including Alps Orthopaedic Centre. Consulting with a specialist at a reputable orthopaedic clinic in Singapore enables you to determine the suitability of partial knee replacement and gain detailed guidance throughout the treatment process.

For specialised advice tailored to your knee condition, please schedule an appointment with Alps Orthopaedic Centre’s Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, Dr Jerry Chen. Dr Chen is one of the few surgeons who specialise in UKA surgery in Southeast Asia. His patients have great outcomes after their UKA surgeries experiencing a significant improvement in knee mobility, and functionality as well as a reduction in knee pain. Notably, many of them could return to the sports that they love, namely playing tennis and golf, hiking and jogging (including marathons).  

Alps Orthopaedic Centre also specialises in same-day total knee replacement surgery executed with Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols and robotic total knee replacement.

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陈杰博士

MBBS (S'pore), MRCSEd, MMed (Ortho), FRCSEd (Ortho)

受过研究员培训的骨科顾问外科医生兼医务主任

为什么选择阿尔卑斯矫形中心?

阿尔卑斯矫形外科中心(Alps Orthopaedic Centre)擅长 "术后强化恢复"(ERAS)。作为一种日间手术,ERAS 直接前路全髋关节置换术(THR)和ERAS 全膝关节置换术(TKR)减少了平均住院时间,采用的技术使病人痛苦更少,恢复更快。我们是新加坡一家专门从事 ERAS 的骨科诊所,竭尽全力让患者尽早恢复日常活动。 

我们的骨科诊所提供肌肉骨骼问题的专业诊断和有效治疗,尤其是髋关节和膝关节手术、运动损伤和外伤骨折的日间手术/术后加强康复(ERAS)。如果您正在考虑进行髋关节或膝关节手术或微创治疗,请与我们经验丰富的骨科顾问外科医生 Jerry Chen 预约,我们将为您提供全面的评估和治疗方案。 

我们的目标是 提高患者的幸福感,优化手术过程的方方面面。通过缩短恢复期 患者能够重新开始他们喜爱的活动。 阿尔卑斯团队提供全面的财务咨询,确保患者了解自己的选择,并就治疗计划做出明智的决定。

本文是否很有见地?分享它!

陈杰博士

MBBS (S'pore), MRCSEd, MMed (Ortho), FRCSEd (Ortho)

受过研究员培训的骨科顾问外科医生兼医务主任

为什么选择阿尔卑斯矫形中心?

阿尔卑斯矫形外科中心(Alps Orthopaedic Centre)擅长 "术后强化恢复"(ERAS)。作为一种日间手术,ERAS 直接前路全髋关节置换术(THR)和ERAS 全膝关节置换术(TKR)减少了平均住院时间,采用的技术使病人痛苦更少,恢复更快。我们是新加坡一家专门从事 ERAS 的骨科诊所,竭尽全力让患者尽早恢复日常活动。 

我们的骨科诊所提供肌肉骨骼问题的专业诊断和有效治疗,尤其是髋关节和膝关节手术、运动损伤和外伤骨折的日间手术/术后加强康复(ERAS)。如果您正在考虑进行髋关节或膝关节手术或微创治疗,请与我们经验丰富的骨科顾问外科医生 Jerry Chen 预约,我们将为您提供全面的评估和治疗方案。 

我们的目标是 提高患者的幸福感,优化手术过程的方方面面。通过缩短恢复期 患者能够重新开始他们喜爱的活动。 阿尔卑斯团队提供全面的财务咨询,确保患者了解自己的选择,并就治疗计划做出明智的决定。

本文是否很有见地?分享它!

陈杰博士

MBBS (S'pore), MRCSEd, MMed (Ortho), FRCSEd (Ortho)

Fellowship-trained Senior Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon & Medical Director

为什么选择阿尔卑斯矫形中心?

阿尔卑斯矫形外科中心(Alps Orthopaedic Centre)擅长 "术后强化恢复"(ERAS)。作为一种日间手术,ERAS 直接前路全髋关节置换术(THR)和ERAS 全膝关节置换术(TKR)减少了平均住院时间,采用的技术使病人痛苦更少,恢复更快。我们是新加坡一家专门从事 ERAS 的骨科诊所,竭尽全力让患者尽早恢复日常活动。 

Our Orthopaedic clinic provides specialised diagnosis and effective treatment of musculoskeletal problems, especially Day Surgery / Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) For Hip and Knee Surgery, Sports Injuries and Trauma Fractures. If you are considering hip or knee surgery or minimally invasive treatments, book an appointment with our experienced Senior Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, Dr Jerry Chen, for a thorough assessment and treatment plan. 

我们的目标是 提高患者的幸福感,优化手术过程的方方面面。通过缩短恢复期 患者能够重新开始他们喜爱的活动。 阿尔卑斯团队提供全面的财务咨询,确保患者了解自己的选择,并就治疗计划做出明智的决定。