Knee Replacement at Grand Rapids Orthopedics
Partial knee replacement surgery is a procedure designed to treat arthritis in just one area of the knee, typically the medial (inside) portion. Rather than replacing the entire knee joint, only the damaged section is replaced with an artificial implant. This minimally invasive procedure preserves healthy bone and tissue, allowing for a smaller incision, quicker recovery, and more natural movement post-surgery.
Patients who undergo partial knee replacement usually return home the same day and experience less post-operative pain compared to total knee replacement surgery.
Knee arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis, is the most common cause leading to partial knee replacement. Osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage that cushions the joints gradually wears down due to age, injury, or repetitive strain.
This degeneration causes pain, stiffness, and difficulty with movement. If the arthritis is confined to one area of the knee, partial knee replacement may be an excellent solution, providing relief while preserving more of the natural knee structure
Knee Replacement Surgery & Recovery Times
At Grand Rapids Orthopedics, one of our specialties is outpatient partial knee replacement. This procedure is ideal for patients whose arthritis primarily affects one area of the knee, usually the medial weight-bearing joint. Instead of replacing the entire knee, we focus only on the affected part, resulting in a less invasive surgery with smaller incisions, quicker recovery times, and better overall function.
The outpatient partial knee replacement typically takes about an hour, and most patients can return home the same day. A visiting therapist can provide in-home therapy if needed. Patients often walk into their follow-up appointment two weeks later without any walking aids.
While not everyone is a candidate for this procedure, it offers numerous benefits, including a smaller incision, faster recovery, and more natural knee movement compared to a total knee replacement. It is also significantly less expensive, often saving patients around $10,000 compared to a full knee replacement in a hospital setting.
At Grand Rapids Orthopedics, we always explore conservative treatment options first, including anti-inflammatory medications, injections, bracing, and laser therapy. If you're experiencing knee pain or arthritis, we’d be happy to evaluate you and recommend the best treatment for your specific needs. Contact us to schedule an appointment at your convenience.
