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Center of Excellence • Knee

Partial Knee Replacement in Indore — Bone-Preserving, Natural-Feeling

Quick answer: A partial (unicondylar) knee replacement resurfaces only the single worn compartment of the knee, keeping your healthy bone and ligaments. Dr. Varun Chouhan offers it at Bombay Hospital, Indore for early, localised arthritis — most patients go home in 1–2 days and walk with a more natural knee feel than a total replacement.

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Dr. Varun Chouhan, Orthopedic & Joint Replacement Surgeon, Bombay Hospital Indore
Dr. Varun ChouhanOrthopedic & Joint Replacement Surgeon • Bombay Hospital, Indore
Overview

What is partial knee replacement?

Partial knee replacement — also called unicompartmental or unicondylar knee replacement — resurfaces only the one part of the knee that has worn out, instead of the whole joint. Because the healthy bone, cartilage and the ACL/PCL ligaments are left untouched, the knee usually feels more natural and bends further than after a total replacement.

It is ideal for patients whose arthritis is confined to a single compartment (most often the inner side). Dr. Chouhan confirms suitability with standing X-rays and, when needed, an MRI before recommending a total or partial procedure.

Symptoms

When to seek an evaluation:

  • Pain limited mainly to one side of the knee (usually the inner side)
  • Discomfort worse on walking but the rest of the knee feels sound
  • Stiffness after rest that eases with movement
  • A knee that is otherwise stable and bends well
  • Localised swelling over the affected compartment
  • X-rays showing single-compartment 'bone-on-bone' wear
Causes

Common causes:

  • Medial osteoarthritis — wear confined to the inner compartment
  • Post-traumatic damage to one part of the joint
  • Localised cartilage loss with intact ligaments
  • Bow-leg (varus) alignment overloading one side
  • Early avascular changes in a single condyle
Benefits

What patients gain

Keeps your own knee

Healthy bone and both cruciate ligaments are preserved.

More natural movement

Retained ligaments give better proprioception and deeper bend.

Smaller incision

Minimally invasive approach means less tissue trauma and blood loss.

Faster recovery

Many patients walk the same day and go home in 1–2 days.

Lower complication risk

Shorter surgery and quicker rehabilitation than total replacement.

Easy future options

If needed years later, it can be revised to a total knee replacement.

Treatment Process

Your treatment, step by step

AssessmentStanding X-rays and examination confirm arthritis is limited to one compartment and ligaments are intact.
PlanningImplant size and alignment are planned; fitness and anaesthesia clearance completed.
Surgery (45–75 min)The worn compartment is resurfaced through a small incision, preserving the rest of the knee.
Same-day walkingMost patients stand and walk within hours; hospital stay is usually 1–2 days.
RehabilitationA short, focused physiotherapy plan restores strength and range quickly.
Recovery Timeline

How recovery typically progresses

Day 0–1Up and walkingStand and walk with support the same day; go home in 1–2 days.
Week 1–2Daily routineIndependent indoor walking; sutures reviewed; swelling settling.
Week 3–4Back to activityMost resume desk work, driving and normal daily life.
Month 2–3Full recoveryStrength and confidence return; low-impact sport is usually possible.

Have your X-rays or MRI ready? Share them on WhatsApp for preliminary guidance before you visit.

Partial (Unicondylar) Knee Replacement FAQ

Common questions, answered

Am I suitable for a partial knee replacement?
You are a candidate if your arthritis is confined to one compartment, your ligaments are intact and your knee is reasonably well aligned. Dr. Chouhan confirms this with standing X-rays and examination.
Is partial knee replacement better than total?
Neither is universally better — it depends on how much of the knee is damaged. For single-compartment arthritis a partial replacement preserves more of your natural knee; for widespread arthritis a total replacement is the right choice.
How long does a partial knee implant last?
Modern partial implants commonly last 15–20 years. If wear develops elsewhere later, the knee can be converted to a total replacement.
How soon can I walk?
Most partial knee patients stand and walk the same day and are independent indoors within a week.
Will my knee feel natural?
Because both cruciate ligaments are kept, most patients report a very natural feel and better bending than after a total replacement.
Is it covered by insurance?
Yes — medically indicated partial knee replacement is covered by most mediclaim policies. Bombay Hospital offers cashless facility with major insurers.

Don't let joint pain decide how you live.

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