Partial vs. Total Knee Replacement

Determined by several factors, including the severity of damage to the knee joint, one of two procedures may be employed to surgically alleviate knee pain: partial knee replacement and total knee replacement. Contact Dr. Kruse for more information regarding these surgical options »

Affecting almost every aspect of daily life, knee pain can be very debilitating. The most common cause of knee pain is osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint disease affecting millions around the world. For patients suffering from severe osteoarthritis, knee replacement is often the best treatment option for alleviating pain and restoring the knee's natural range of motion. Total knee replacement procedures have been performed since the 1960's; however, recent surgical advancements now offer orthopedic surgeons an additional solution, known as partial knee replacement, for relieving knee pain.

Learn more about common causes and symptoms of knee pain »

Total Knee Replacement

Total knee replacement is recommended for patients who have severe damage to a large portion of the knee, have lost joint mobility, or are unable to work or complete basic everyday tasks. During total knee replacement surgery, Dr. Kruse will remove the entire diseased knee joint and replace it with a metal and plastic prosthetic implant, restoring smooth pain-free movement of the knee joint. All three knee components are removed and replaced during the procedure: the femoral, tibia, and patellar.

Following a total knee replacement, patients are required to stay in the hospital for at least 2-3 days to ensure proper recovery. For the month following surgery, it is particularly important to avoid placing undue pressure and weight on the treated knee. As such, Dr. Kruse will recommend patients use a walker or support until joint strength has returned.

Learn more about minimally invasive total knee replacement »

Partial Knee Replacement

Partial knee replacement, also known as unicompartmental knee replacement, is recommended for patients who have damage to only one compartment of the knee joint. To determine if partial knee replacement will best meet the patients needs, Dr. Kruse will complete a full examination to determine the type, severity, and location of the joint damage.

During the procedure, Dr. Kruse will use minimally invasive techniques to remove the damaged and loose bone and cartilage from the affected knee joint. He will then secure the ends of the femur and tibia with metal coverings, and insert a plastic component in between to allow for smooth movement.

Learn more about partial knee replacement »

Partial knee replacement has several advantages, including:

• More normal feeling during movement
• Smaller incisions
• Decreased post-op pain
• Quicker return to daily activities

Partial knee replacement is often performed on an outpatient basis, allowing patients to return home the same day. After approximately 3-to-5 weeks post-op, patients will regain the majority of joint flexibility and strength required to complete daily tasks.

Partial vs. Total Knee Replacement in Minneapolis, MN

Specializing in knee pain treatment and minimally invasive surgical techniques, Dr. Jay Kruse is committed to providing the highest quality orthopedic care possible to patients in the Minneapolis area To make an appointment with Dr. Kruse please call our Minnesota office at (763) 786-9543.