If you have severe arthritis in your knee or another problem that is causing significant and chronic knee pain, your orthopedist will likely recommend knee replacement surgery. Joint replacement is one of the best and most effective options to provide a permanent quality of life improvement. However, knee replacements aren't a one-size-fits-all treatment option.

Several different types of knee replacement surgery are available, but most broadly fit into the "total" and "partial" replacement categories. Each option has distinct advantages and disadvantages, but why should you choose one over the other? And do you have a say in the process, or is it entirely up to your orthopedist?

What's the Difference?

Osteoarthritis can affect any or all of your knee's three zones (referred to as compartments). Doctors will typically describe osteoarthritis as uni-compartmental, bi-compartmental, or tri-compartmental, depending on the extent of your condition. Broadly speaking, osteoarthritis affecting more than one compartment is known as multi-compartmental osteoarthritis.

Understanding these distinctions is crucial because the difference between total and partial knee replacement depends on the number of compartments replaced. A partial knee replacement focuses only on a single compartment, leaving more of your knee's natural structure intact. A total knee replacement replaces far more of the joint.

Since a partial knee replacement is a less invasive procedure, it typically has fewer side effects, a quicker recovery time, and a more "natural" feeling postoperative range of motion. On the other hand, a total replacement may produce a more permanent and effective outcome if your osteoarthritis (or another condition) affects more than one compartment in your knee.

Who Chooses the Best Option?

Certain situations may make you a better candidate for one surgery over the other. For example, partial knee replacement is unlikely to produce good outcomes if you have severe multi-compartmental osteoarthritis. On the other hand, uni-compartmental osteoarthritis is more suitable for a partial knee replacement since the surgery can focus only on the affected portion of your knee.

In most cases, your orthopedist will tell you the surgery that's best suitable for your particular situation. However, in some cases, you may need to work with your doctor to determine the best treatment for your condition. For example, total knee replacement may be an option if you're currently overweight, even if you only have arthritis affecting a single compartment in your knee.

Whatever your unique circumstances, it's crucial to carefully discuss your options with your doctor and understand why one surgery may be preferable.