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Fellowship
University of Utah
Procedure

Partial Knee Replacement

Partial Knee Replacement care in Austin, TX

Medical illustration of Partial Knee Replacement
FigureMedical illustration of Partial Knee Replacement
  • Care areaKnee
  • Performed byTyler Goldberg, MD
The short answer

Dr. Goldberg performs partial knee replacement in Austin, resurfacing only the damaged part of the knee when arthritis is limited to one compartment. It is considered after non-surgical care. Dr. Goldberg evaluates whether a partial or total replacement fits each patient's knee and goals.

Tyler Goldberg performs partial knee replacement in Austin 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. Goldberg confirms candidacy with imaging and, sometimes, findings during surgery.

Labeled medical illustration of knee osteoarthritis
Knee OsteoarthritisLabeled medical illustration of knee osteoarthritis Read more

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 Austin?

Tyler Goldberg is a board certified orthopedic surgeon who performs partial knee replacement in Austin, TX. Fellowship trained at University of Utah (Adult Reconstruction). Dr. Goldberg sees patients at the practice in Austin; appointments can be requested through this site.

What do patients ask most?

Am I a candidate for partial knee replacement?
Candidates usually have arthritis limited to one compartment of the knee with intact ligaments. An exam and imaging help decide, and sometimes the final decision is made during surgery.
Is recovery faster than a total knee replacement?
Because less bone is removed, many people recover somewhat faster. Recovery still happens in stages and varies from person to person.
Can a partial knee replacement be converted to a total one later?
Yes. If arthritis later develops in other parts of the knee, a partial replacement can be revised to a total replacement. This is discussed as part of planning.
Will I be able to kneel and squat afterward?
Many people regain good function for daily activities. What you can do depends on your knee, your rehabilitation, and your goals, which your surgical team will map with you.

How do payments work?

Contact the office to confirm insurance participation.

Tyler Goldberg, MD
Orthopedic surgeonTyler Goldberg, MD

Fellowship trained at University of Utah (Adult Reconstruction). Sees patients in Austin.

About Dr. Goldberg
Appointments

Talk through partial knee replacement with Dr. Goldberg

Call the office or request an appointment. Accepting new patients.