Custom and Personalized Partial Knee Replacement in New York and Connecticut

We are an out-of-network practice focused on delivering individualized, concierge-level orthopedic care.

At Plancher Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine, we understand that knee pain impacts every patient differently, and we specialize in knee replacement surgery to address these unique needs. That’s why our approach to partial knee replacement is entirely custom and based on your anatomy, lifestyle, and treatment goals. With advanced diagnostics and personalized surgical planning, we offer tailored solutions in New York and Connecticut to help you regain mobility and return to the activities you love.

Understanding Partial Knee Replacement

What Is Partial Knee Replacement?

Partial knee replacement, also called unicompartmental knee arthroplasty, is a minimally invasive procedure that targets only the damaged compartment of the knee joint. By preserving healthy bone, cartilage, and ligaments, this surgical option supports more natural knee movement, quicker recovery, and reduced pain compared to total knee replacement.

This approach is particularly effective for patients with osteoarthritis limited to the medial compartment of one knee, commonly the medial side. It allows for preservation of native ligaments and surrounding tissue, improving long-term joint function.

Benefits of Partial Knee Replacement

Minimally Invasive: Smaller incisions reduce tissue disruption, resulting in faster healing.
Preserves Healthy Structures: Unaffected parts of the knee remain untouched, allowing for a more natural feel post-surgery.
Faster Recovery: Most patients return to routine activities faster than those undergoing total knee replacement.
Reduced Pain: With less surgical trauma and preserved anatomy, patients typically experience less postoperative discomfort.
Improved Function: Retained ligaments contribute to more stable and natural knee mechanics.

Personalized Approach at Plancher Orthopaedics

Customized Treatment Plans

Every patient begins with a thorough evaluation, including physical examination and imaging studies. Using advanced MRI and 3D modeling, we develop individualized surgical plans that reflect your knee’s structure, including the three compartments, and your functional goals, whether you’re in New York or Connecticut.

Advanced Surgical Techniques

We use robotic-assisted technology and computer-guided systems to increase accuracy in implant placement. These technologies support precise alignment and minimize unnecessary tissue disruption, which enhances recovery and long-term success.

Surgical Procedure Overview

Preoperative Imaging

We start with detailed imaging, often MRI or CT scans, and a discussion about pain medications to develop a 3D map of your knee and determine if partial replacement is appropriate.

Custom Implant Selection

Implants, including options for unicondylar knee replacement, are chosen based on your knee’s unique structure. This ensures a more natural fit and improved alignment during movement.

Minimally Invasive Surgery

With small incisions and refined techniques, our surgeons replace only the damaged portion of the knee. Healthy cartilage and ligaments remain intact.

Postoperative Planning

We initiate a rehabilitation program right after surgery, customized to your goals and mobility level.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Recovery is typically faster than total knee replacement. Our team develops a structured plan that may include:

Pain Management: Multimodal strategies are designed to minimize medication needs, utilizing a combination of oral medications, nerve blocks, and regional anesthesia to provide excellent pain relief and reduce postoperative pain. This approach helps patients experience less pain and facilitates a smoother recovery process.
Physical Therapy: Tailored movement programs to restore strength and function are essential for partial knee replacement patients. A physical therapist will guide you through exercises that target the knee joint, thigh bone, and surrounding muscles, ensuring you regain mobility and stability. This personalized rehabilitation plan is crucial for a quicker recovery and to help patients return to their daily activities.
Close Monitoring: Regular check-ins to ensure steady progress and adapt as needed. Our team remains vigilant in monitoring for potential complications such as blood clots, infections, or issues with the implant. By keeping a close eye on your recovery, we can promptly address any concerns and adjust your rehabilitation plan to optimize outcomes.

Most patients return to walking shortly after surgery, with continued improvement over several weeks, which helps relieve pain. The goal is to have patients bear weight on the knee and resume normal activities as soon as possible, thanks to the minimally invasive nature of the procedure and the preservation of healthy knee structures.

Why Choose Plancher Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine?

Expertise: Led by renowned orthopaedic surgeon Dr. Kevin D. Plancher, our team is highly experienced in customized partial knee procedures. With a deep understanding of knee osteoarthritis and the latest in surgical management, our orthopedic surgeons are equipped to provide the best care for well-selected patients.
Patient-Centered Care: We focus on your goals, providing a personalized experience from consultation to recovery. Our approach ensures that each patient receives a treatment plan tailored to their unique needs, whether they are dealing with inflammatory arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or knee arthritis confined to a single compartment.
Advanced Technology: We use the latest in surgical navigation and robotics for optimal accuracy and results. This technology allows for the precise placement of implants, reducing the risk of blood loss and enhancing the longevity of the knee replacement.
Full Continuum of Care: Our support spans diagnosis, surgery, rehabilitation, and long-term joint health. From the initial physical examination and imaging tests to postoperative care and ongoing monitoring, we are committed to ensuring the best possible outcomes for our patients.
Faster Radiology Times: Get your MRI, CT scan, X-rays, and other important results within 24-48 hours.

Schedule Your Consultation in New York or Connecticut

If you’re dealing with localized knee pain and want to explore partial knee replacement, schedule a consultation with Plancher Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine. We’re proud to serve patients at our two office locations:

New York Office:
1160 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10128
Phone: (646) 760-3579
Connecticut Office:
31 River Road, Suite 102, Cos Cob, CT 06807
Phone: (203) 863-2003

Contact Us

Take the first step toward restoring your knee function with a personalized treatment plan from Plancher Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine, possibly including total knee arthroplasty if necessary.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best age to have a partial knee replacement?

The best age to have a partial knee replacement is typically under 60 years old, as ideal candidates are generally younger and in good overall health with intact ligaments and minimal pain. This age range allows for better long-term outcomes and recovery.

How long does it take to recover from partial knee arthroplasty?

Recovery from partial knee arthroplasty generally takes about 4 to 12 weeks for initial healing, but achieving the full benefits of the surgery may take up to one year. Engaging in regular activities can typically resume within the first few months post-surgery.

Who is a candidate for partial knee replacement?

A candidate for partial knee replacement typically has knee arthritis limited to the lateral compartment or one compartment, is over 60 years old, exhibits only minor deformities, and retains adequate range of motion and stability in the knee.

What are the potential complications of partial knee replacement?

Partial knee replacement may lead to complications such as infections, blood clots, nerve damage, and problems with the implant, like loosening or excessive wear, highlighting the importance of prescription pain medication for managing discomfort. It is essential to be aware of these risks when considering the procedure.

How does robotic-assisted surgery enhance partial knee replacement?

Robotic-assisted surgery enhances partial knee replacement by utilizing advanced imaging to create a personalized 3D model of the knee, which significantly improves precision and surgical outcomes. This technology ultimately leads to better recovery and functionality for patients.