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Procedure

Partial Knee Replacement
in Miami

For select compartment arthritis — preserving healthy structures, restoring smooth mechanics, with faster recovery than traditional total knee replacement.

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Partial knee replacement (unicompartmental) implant diagram

What Is Partial Knee Replacement?

Partial knee replacement (unicompartmental knee arthroplasty, or UKA) is a surgical procedure that resurfaces only the damaged compartment of the knee. Dr. Denyer performs partial replacement for the medial compartment, the lateral compartment, or the patellofemoral (kneecap) joint when arthritis is isolated to that area. Unlike total knee replacement, the healthy bone, cartilage, and ligaments in the rest of the knee are preserved.

This approach results in a more natural-feeling knee, smaller incision, less blood loss, faster recovery, and often same-day discharge for appropriate candidates. The tradeoff is that not everyone is a candidate — careful patient selection based on imaging, physical examination, and symptom pattern is essential.

Which part of the knee?

Medial (inner)

Most common unicompartmental replacement when arthritis is limited to the inner knee.

Lateral (outer)

For arthritis isolated to the outer compartment; still a tissue-preserving partial replacement.

Patellofemoral (kneecap)

For arthritis limited to the kneecap joint.

Learn more →

Who Is a Candidate?

  • Arthritis isolated to one compartment of the knee (confirmed on X-ray/MRI)
  • Intact anterior cruciate ligament (ACL)
  • Knee deformity that is correctable
  • Failed non-surgical management (PT, injections, anti-inflammatories)
  • Active lifestyle with desire to preserve knee mechanics

Recovery Timeline

Day 1

Walk with assistance, same-day discharge for most

Week 1–2

Walking independently, off cane for many patients

Week 4–6

Return to driving, daily activities

Month 3

Return to the sports you already did — no lifetime restrictions

Frequently Asked Questions

Am I a candidate for partial knee replacement?›
Candidates typically have arthritis in only one compartment of the knee — the medial (inner), lateral (outer), or patellofemoral (kneecap) side — have preserved ligaments, and have failed non-surgical treatments like physical therapy and injections. A consultation with imaging review is needed to confirm candidacy.
Can I go home the same day after partial knee replacement?›
Yes. Partial knee replacement is often an excellent outpatient procedure. Many patients walk the day of surgery and recover at home.
Do you replace the outer (lateral) side of the knee?›
Yes, when arthritis is limited to the lateral compartment and the rest of the knee is healthy.
What is the recovery time for partial knee replacement?›
Many patients walk within hours of surgery and return home the same day or next day. Most patients are off a cane within 2–4 weeks and return to normal activities within 4–6 weeks.
How is partial knee replacement different from total knee replacement?›
Partial knee replacement replaces only the damaged compartment, preserving healthy bone, cartilage, and ligaments. This leads to a more natural-feeling knee, faster recovery, and less blood loss — but requires careful patient selection.
Is partial knee replacement done with a robot?›
Robotic and navigation-assisted techniques can be used when beneficial, improving implant positioning accuracy and reproducibility. Dr. Denyer selects the approach best suited to each patient.
Can a partial knee replacement be revised to a total knee replacement?›
Yes. Partial knee replacement can be converted to a total knee replacement if arthritis progresses to other compartments over time. This is a well-studied procedure with reliable outcomes.

Related Procedures

Total Knee Replacement →

For advanced arthritis across multiple compartments

Patellofemoral Replacement →

Kneecap joint resurfacing when arthritis is isolated anteriorly

Outpatient Joint Replacement →

Same-day knee and hip surgery at UHealth

Total Hip Replacement →

Muscle-sparing anterior approach for hip arthritis

Ready to find out if you're a candidate?

Schedule a consultation with Dr. Denyer to review your imaging, discuss your symptoms, and determine the right procedure for your anatomy and goals.

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