If osteoarthritis has damaged only part of your knee, you may not need a full knee replacement. Partial knee replacement surgery (also called unicompartmental knee arthroplasty)offers a targeted solution that preserves healthy tissue whilst addressing the damaged compartment.
Partial knee replacement surgery is an innovative, bone-sparing procedure for individuals with isolated knee arthritis. It involves replacing only the damaged compartment of the knee with an artificial implant, preserving the remaining healthy cartilage, bone, and ligaments.
The distinction between these two procedures matters enormously for your recovery and long-term satisfaction:
Partial Knee Replacement:
Total Knee Replacement:
The decision to proceed with a Partial Knee Replacement (PKR) typically depends on one key anatomical factor: osteoarthritis confined to a single area of the knee.
Here’s a breakdown of the indications:
This highly specific pain pattern may suggest that PKR, rather than a full replacement, is the appropriate surgical path forward.
It is less about your age and more about your knee’s specific condition. While many candidates are over 50, we have seen this procedure work wonderfully for younger patients with localised damage and older patients (even in their 70s) who are active.
You may be an ideal candidate for a partial knee replacement if:
A detailed examination and X-rays are needed to confirm your candidacy.
The surgery is only the beginning; the long-term success of your PKR hinges entirely on your commitment to the rehabilitation phase. A disciplined approach ensures proper integration of the implant and maximises the preservation of your natural knee components.
By far, the most common reason for total knee replacement surgery is severe osteoarthritis (OA). This is often called “wear-and-tear” arthritis. Over a lifetime, the protective articular cartilage that cushions your knee joint gradually breaks down. As this cartilage thins, the bones begin to rub against each other, causing friction. The body may try to compensate by creating bone spurs, which can worsen pain and stiffness. This bone-on-bone contact is the source of the deep, aching pain and loss of motion typical of advanced OA.
The initial weeks post-surgery (Weeks 0–6) focus on pain management and early function to capitalise on the less invasive nature of the PKR procedure.
After the immediate post-operative period, typically around the two-week mark, you transition into intensive physiotherapy focused on regaining strength and function.
| Phase | Timeline | Primary Focus and Activities |
|---|---|---|
|
Early Recovery Phase |
Weeks 2–6 |
Focus shifts from managing pain to regaining functional independence. Patients transition from crutches to a cane or walking unaided. Range of motion (ROM) exercises increase. |
|
Intermediate Phase |
Months 2–3 |
Intensive strength training for the major leg muscles begins. Low-impact activities like stationary cycling and swimming are introduced. Many patients can safely resume driving during this phase. |
|
Return to Activity Phase |
Months 3–6 |
The goal is to feel “back to normal” and return to most low-impact recreational activities (e.g., golf, doubles tennis, brisk walking). Functional exercises are refined to improve balance and endurance. |
|
Long-Term Outlook |
6–12+ Months |
Achieving maximum functional strength and confidence. Success relies on continuing low-impact physical activity to maintain muscle strength and joint health. The implant is designed to last 15 to 20+ years. |
The long-term success of PKR is high when the patient is properly selected.
Understanding the financial aspect is essential. This section provides transparent estimates for public and private hospitals in Singapore and explains how Medisave, MediShield Life, and Integrated Shield Plans apply.
The cost of partial knee replacement surgery in Singapore varies based on your choice of hospital (public or private), the type of implant, and the surgeon’s fees.
You do not have to pay this amount entirely out-of-pocket. The Singapore healthcare financing system is designed to help.
When budgeting for your procedure, remember to account for these related costs:
Yes, any joint replacement is a major surgical procedure. However, a partial knee replacement is less invasive than a total knee replacement, involving a smaller incision and less disruption to surrounding tissues. This allows for a quicker recovery and a more natural-feeling knee.
The procedure typically takes 1 to 2 hours. In Singapore, most patients are able to go home within 1 to 3 days following the surgery, which is generally shorter than the stay required for a total knee replacement.
Many leading surgeons in Singapore use robotic-arm assisted technology (like MAKO or ROSA systems). This technology helps the surgeon create a precise 3D plan and provides real-time guidance to ensure optimal implant placement and accuracy.
You will be encouraged to walk, with support, on the same day or the morning after surgery. Early mobilisation is a crucial part of recovery.
When performed on the correct candidate, the results are excellent. Clinical studies show that over 90% of partial knee replacements are still functioning perfectly 10 years after surgery.
Modern implants, especially with precise robotic placement, are designed for durability. Many patients can expect their replacement to last 15 to 20 years, and potentially longer.
A good consultation is a two-way conversation. Here are some important questions to ask:
Dr Yong Ren brings extensive expertise to the field of minimally invasive orthopaedic procedures. His background includes specialist training in Switzerland, focusing on complex orthopaedic trauma and reconstruction, underscoring his capability in handling simple to highly complex joint issues.
Choosing us means you benefit from:
Dr Yong Ren’s practice prioritises the least invasive techniques, leading to smaller scars, less post-operative pain, and faster return to function.
We believe in treating the whole patient, not just the injury. This includes a full, multi-modal pathway from non-operative treatments (like physical therapy and injections) to the latest surgical techniques.
We provide clear, locally-relevant guidance on everything from the procedure itself to the intricacies of Medisave claimability and insurance processing in Singapore.
If you have been living with persistent pain, or if you have questions about your orthopaedic condition and wish to explore personalised, advanced treatment options, we encourage you to consult with Dr Yong Ren.
Take the first step toward a pain-free life with a $150 Knee Pain Consultation & X-ray.
