Learn about Partial Knee Replacement (PKR) surgery, including the procedure, recovery timeline, and rehabilitation process. Discover how Palms Physiotherapy can assist with pre-habilitation and post-operative rehabilitation for partial knee replacement surgery.

Partial Knee Replacement: Procedure, Recovery & Rehabilitation

What is Partial Knee Replacement (PKR)?

Partial Knee Replacement (PKR), also known as unicompartmental knee replacement, is a surgical procedure in which only one part (compartment) of the knee joint is replaced with an artificial prosthesis. This procedure is typically performed for patients with arthritis or cartilage damage in only one compartment of the knee, usually the medial, lateral, or patellofemoral compartment. The goal of PKR is to preserve the healthy bone and tissue in the knee while alleviating pain and improving mobility.

Conditions Treated with Partial Knee Replacement

• Medial Compartment Arthritis: The most common reason for PKR, where the inside of the knee joint is affected by osteoarthritis.

• Lateral Compartment Arthritis: A less common condition where the outer part of the knee joint is damaged.

• Patellofemoral Arthritis: Arthritis affecting the kneecap area, sometimes treated with partial knee replacement.

• Osteoarthritis: Degenerative joint disease affecting only one part of the knee joint.

• Post-Traumatic Arthritis: Arthritis caused by injury or trauma to the knee joint.

The Procedure

1. Preoperative Preparation:

   • Your doctor will perform a thorough evaluation using X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs to assess the damage to the knee joint and determine whether PKR is appropriate for your condition.

   • Pre-surgical physical therapy may be recommended to strengthen the muscles around the knee and improve the overall health of the joint.

   • A discussion about anesthesia options, including general or regional anesthesia, will take place.

2. During the Procedure:

   • Partial Knee Replacement surgery typically takes 1-2 hours and is performed under general anesthesia or spinal anesthesia, depending on your condition.

   • The surgeon makes a small incision over the affected compartment of the knee.

   • Damaged cartilage and bone are removed, and a prosthetic component is inserted into the knee joint. This component is typically made of metal and plastic.

   • The surgery aims to preserve the healthy parts of the knee joint while replacing the damaged area with the artificial implant.

3. Postoperative Care:

   • After surgery, you will be monitored in a recovery room for several hours.

   • Pain management will be a focus, including medications, ice, and elevation to reduce swelling.

   • Rehabilitation will begin almost immediately with exercises to improve range of motion and prevent blood clots.

Healing and Recovery Time

• Initial Recovery (Week 1):

  • You will likely stay in the hospital for 1-2 days following surgery, depending on your recovery.

  • During the first week, your focus will be on reducing pain and swelling while starting basic exercises to improve the knee’s mobility.

  • Most patients use a walker or crutches for the first few days to assist with walking.

• Early Recovery (Weeks 2-6):

  • By Week 2, you will likely transition to walking with less assistance, and you will continue physical therapy to increase strength and range of motion.

  • Patients may experience mild swelling, which should gradually decrease.

  • The focus during this phase will be on regaining mobility and improving muscle strength around the knee joint.

• Intermediate Recovery (1-3 Months):

  • At 1-3 months, you should be able to resume low-impact activities, such as walking or swimming, and will continue rehabilitation exercises to build strength.

  • Full range of motion should be achieved, with minimal discomfort and swelling.

• Full Recovery:

  • Complete recovery from PKR can take anywhere from 3-6 months, with the final healing process continuing for up to 1 year.

  • Most patients can return to light activities by 3-6 months, but high-impact sports and strenuous activities should be avoided for at least a year or more.

Rehabilitation After Partial Knee Replacement

Postoperative rehabilitation is essential to regain full function of the knee and return to normal activities. The rehabilitation process focuses on strengthening the knee joint, improving flexibility, and restoring balance.

1. Post-Operative Rehabilitation:

   • Phase 1 (Weeks 1-2): During this phase, the focus is on reducing swelling, pain management, and regaining knee flexion and extension. Gentle exercises will be introduced.

   • Phase 2 (Weeks 2-6): Exercises will focus on strengthening the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calf muscles. Weight-bearing activities may be introduced as tolerated.

   • Phase 3 (Months 1-3): Low-impact exercises like cycling, swimming, and walking are introduced to improve endurance and flexibility.

   • Phase 4 (Months 3-6): Full strengthening exercises and functional movements, including stair climbing, squatting, and walking on uneven surfaces, will be incorporated into the rehabilitation process.

   • Phase 5 (Months 6-12): Advanced rehabilitation to improve balance, flexibility, and strength. Patients will gradually return to more strenuous activities with medical clearance.

2. Progressive Strengthening and Return to Activity:

   • Rehabilitation is key to restoring muscle strength and knee function after surgery. Patients who are compliant with their physical therapy regimens generally experience faster recovery times and improved long-term results.

   • Return to low-impact sports such as swimming or cycling is typically possible after 3-6 months. However, high-impact activities like running should be avoided for at least 6-12 months after surgery.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How long does it take to recover from partial knee replacement surgery?

• Full recovery can take anywhere from 3-6 months, with a final recovery time of up to 1 year. Most patients return to light activities within 3 months.

2. What is the difference between total knee replacement and partial knee replacement?

• Total knee replacement involves replacing the entire knee joint, while partial knee replacement only replaces the damaged compartment of the knee.

3. Will I be able to walk right after surgery?

• Yes, most patients will begin walking with the assistance of crutches or a walker within 1-2 days after surgery.

4. Can I play sports after partial knee replacement surgery?

• Low-impact activities like swimming and cycling are encouraged after 3-6 months, but high-impact activities like running should be avoided for at least 6-12 months.

How Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health Can Help

At Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health, we specialize in pre-habilitation and post-surgical rehabilitation for Partial Knee Replacement (PKR) patients. Our services include:

1. Pre-Habilitation:

   • We prepare your knee joint for surgery by strengthening the muscles surrounding the knee, improving flexibility, and increasing overall knee health.

2. Post-Operative Rehabilitation:

   • Our experienced physiotherapists will work with you to restore knee function, strength, and mobility through customized rehabilitation programs tailored to your specific needs and goals.

Reputable Australian Resources

1. Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA)

   • Comprehensive information on rehabilitation for partial knee replacement surgery.

   • https://australian.physio/

2. Better Health Channel (Victoria)

   • A reliable resource for understanding partial knee replacement surgery and rehabilitation.

   • https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/

3. HealthDirect Australia

   • Trusted information on partial knee replacement surgery, including risks, benefits, and post-operative care.

   • https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/

4. Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS)

   • Surgical information and patient care guidelines for knee replacements.

   • https://www.surgeons.org/

For personalised care and rehabilitation after Partial Knee Replacement, contact Palms Physiotherapy & AlliedHealth to schedule an appointment with our experienced physiotherapists.