Partial Knee Replacement Surgery Specialist

Nathanael D. Heckmann, MD

Adult Reconstruction Orthopedic Surgeon in Los Angeles, Pasadena, and Glendale, CA

If you have severe arthritis in your knees that hasn’t responded to nonsurgical treatment, you might be eligible for partial knee replacement surgery. Nathanael Heckmann, MD, a gifted orthopedic surgeon with offices in the Boyle Heights neighborhood of Los Angeles, and in Glendale near La Cañada, performs partial knee replacements using state-of-the-art minimally invasive robotic surgical techniques. Call Dr. Heckmann or make an appointment online today to learn more about your partial knee replacement surgery options.

Partial Knee Replacement Surgery Q&A

What is partial knee replacement surgery?

A partial knee replacement is a knee replacement option for patients who have osteoarthritis that is confined to one part of the knee, such as the lateral (outer), medial (inner), or patellofemoral (where the kneecap and femur meet) compartments.

Historically, partial knee replacement surgery was reserved for older patients who didn’t engage in many physical activities. Today, however, a partial knee replacement is the preferred option for younger patients as the recovery is quicker and less painful than a total knee replacement.

Why would I need partial knee replacement surgery?

Partial knee replacements are suitable if you have osteoarthritis in one part of your knee. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease that wears away the cartilage that cushions your joints. Without cartilage, your bones grind together, which leads to damage and the development of painful bone spurs.

In most cases, Dr. Heckmann tries nonsurgical treatments like physical therapy and joint injections for knee pain. However, if your pain doesn’t go away, he might recommend a partial knee replacement surgery to repair your knee and restore your pain.

What happens during partial knee replacement surgery?

Dr. Heckmann uses minimally invasive, robotic-assisted surgery for partial knee replacements. This approach involves a smaller incision than a standard total knee replacement surgery.

Dr. Heckmann uses the Mako™ robot to measure and map your anatomy. He meticulously removes the damaged bone and connective tissue, minimizing trauma to your remaining healthy tissue. Then, he implants the knee prosthesis and bonds them to your remaining natural bone.

What should I expect after partial knee replacement surgery?

Recovery from partial knee replacement surgery is faster and less painful than a total knee replacement. The minimally invasive robotic surgical techniques reduce blood loss and damage to your healthy bone tissue, muscles, and connective tissue. You also benefit from less pain overall and a reduced risk of infection.

Dr. Heckmann prescribes medication to manage your pain and provides a postoperative physical therapy plan to help you rebuild strength, flexibility, and a full range of motion. Recovery still takes several weeks, but you can return to most of your regular activities relatively quickly.

If you’re looking for an experienced orthopedic surgeon to perform a partial knee replacement surgery, call Dr. Heckmann or schedule a consultation online today to learn about your surgical options.

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