Dr. Plancher performs partial knee replacement in New York, resurfacing only the damaged part of the knee when arthritis is limited to one compartment. It is considered after non-surgical care. Dr. Plancher evaluates whether a partial or total replacement fits each patient's knee and goals.
Kevin Plancher performs partial knee replacement in New York when it is the right step, and reviews every alternative with you first.
What is Partial Knee Replacement?
Partial knee replacement, also called unicompartmental replacement, resurfaces only the worn part of the knee.
The knee has three compartments, and when arthritis affects just one, the healthy parts can be left alone.
It is an option for people whose arthritis is limited to a single compartment and whose ligaments are intact. Because less bone is removed, some people recover more quickly than after a total replacement.
Not everyone with knee arthritis is a candidate. The suitability depends on where the arthritis sits and the overall condition of the knee.
What happens during Partial Knee Replacement, step by step?
Under anesthesia, the surgeon removes the damaged surface of the affected compartment and fits metal and plastic components, leaving the healthy compartments and ligaments in place.
Some surgeons use robotic assistance to plan and position the implant. Dr. Plancher confirms candidacy with imaging and, sometimes, findings during surgery.
What is recovery like after Partial Knee Replacement?
Recovery is staged and often somewhat quicker than after a total replacement because less bone is removed.
Many people walk with support soon after surgery, and returning to low-impact activity commonly takes several weeks, according to general guidance from the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. These are ranges, not promises. Your timeline depends on your health, your rehabilitation, and your daily demands.
Read the full guide to preparing for surgery →
Your own recovery instructions come from the office and are specific to you. This page describes the general course, not a plan to follow.
Who performs partial knee replacement in New York?
Kevin Plancher is a board certified orthopedic surgeon who performs partial knee replacement in New York, NY. Fellowship trained at The Steadman-Hawkins Clinic, Vail, CO – Shoulder and Knee Reconstruction & Sports Medicine, The Indiana Hand Center, Indianapolis, IN – Hand & Microvascular Surgery. Dr. Plancher sees patients at the practice in New York; appointments can be requested through this site.
What do patients ask most?
Am I a candidate for partial knee replacement?+
Is recovery faster than a total knee replacement?+
Can a partial knee replacement be converted to a total one later?+
Will I be able to kneel and squat afterward?+
How do payments work?
Contact the office to confirm insurance participation.
Fellowship trained at The Steadman-Hawkins Clinic, Vail, CO – Shoulder and Knee Reconstruction & Sports Medicine, The Indiana Hand Center, Indianapolis, IN – Hand & Microvascular Surgery. Sees patients in New York.
About Dr. Plancher →
