Partial vs. Total Knee Replacement: Which is Best?

Choosing the Right Implant

The knee consists of three distinct compartments: the medial (inner), lateral (outer), and patellofemoral (under the kneecap). When arthritis attacks the knee, it does not always damage all three.

Unicompartmental (Partial) Knee Replacement

A partial replacement preserves two-thirds of the natural knee. Dr. Labib selectively replaces only the single compartment severely damaged by arthritis.

• Pros: Smaller incision, feels more like a "natural" knee because the native ACL and PCL ligaments are kept intact. Faster recovery path.
• Cons: Cannot be done if arthritis is widespread across multiple compartments, or if there is severe ligament instability.

Total Knee Replacement (TKR)

The entire surface of the joint is resurfaced with a highly durable metal and highly crosslinked polyethylene construct.

• Pros: A definitive, permanent solution for severe, pan-compartmental arthritis. Excellent correction of severe bow-legged or knock-kneed deformities.
• Cons: More extensive surgery, longer initial rehabilitation phase to regain knee flexion.

Through comprehensive clinical examination and detailed imaging, Dr. Mohamed Labib will determine whether you are a precise candidate for tissue-sparing partial knee surgery.