Learn the three main types of knee replacement surgery.
- Total replaces all three parts, half replaces one side.
- Kneecap replacement is for arthritis behind the
kneecap.
Find out which suits you and how to get help
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What Are the Types of Knee Replacement?
There are three main types of knee replacement surgery:
- Total knee replacement: replaces all three parts of the knee
- Half knee replacement (hemi arthroplasty): replaces only one half of the knee
- Patellofemoral (kneecap) replacement: replaces only the kneecap area
The right type depends on where the arthritis (joint wear and damage) is in your knee
A Simple Way to Understand the Knee: Three Rooms
Think of your knee as a home with three rooms.
- Inside room: the inner side of the knee
- Outside room: the outer side of the knee
- Kneecap room: the area behind and around the kneecap
Each type of surgery fixes a different number of these rooms. This makes it easier to see
how the three procedures differ
What Is a Total Knee Replacement?
A total knee replacement is surgery that replaces all three rooms of the knee.
- It replaces the inside room, the outside room, and the kneecap
- It is the most common knee replacement done in America
- It is usually chosen when damage is spread across the knee
Read More: Best Knee Replacement Surgery in Delhi – Top Orthopedic Surgeons
What Is a Half Knee Replacement (Hemi Arthroplasty)?
A half knee replacement, also called hemi arthroplasty, replaces only one half of the knee.
- It is most often done on the inside half
- Replacing only the outside half is rare
- The other two “rooms” are left alone
How is it done?
- It is done through a minimally invasive approach
- This means the surgeon works through a smaller opening
- Only the damaged portion is replaced
What is a medial hemi arthroplasty?
- Medial means the inside of the knee
- So this is a half knee replacement of the inner side
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What Is a Patellofemoral (Kneecap) Replacement?
A patellofemoral replacement treats arthritis that is only in the kneecap area.
- Patella means kneecap
- Femoral refers to the thigh bone it glides against
- The two meet at the front of the knee
What happens during surgery?
- The back of the kneecap is resurfaced (given a fresh covering)
- The arthritis is removed
- A smooth surface is placed on the groove of the thigh bone, called the trochlear
How Do You Know Which Knee Replacement Is Right for You?
The right type depends on where your arthritis is located.
- Arthritis in all three rooms usually points to a total replacement
- Arthritis in one half points to a half replacement
- Arthritis only at the kneecap points to a kneecap replacement
Who decides?
- An orthopedic surgeon (a bone and joint specialist) makes this call
- They examine your knee and look at where the damage is
Why Does the Care Team Matter in Knee Replacement?
A good joint replacement program works as a team effort, not just a surgery.
- Patients are taught what to expect before the procedure
- Questions are answered at each step
- Recovery at home is planned and supported
Patients who go through a well-organized program often feel more prepared and
confident. Look for a hospital with certified, structured joint replacement care.
Read More: Number 1 best Knee Replacement : Risks and Complications
How Can ConsultGrab Help With Knee Replacement?
ConsultGrab is a bridge between patients and trusted medical specialists.
- We understand your case in detail
- We connect you with orthopedic surgeons for severe knee pain, arthritis, or joint
damage - We explain your treatment options in clear language
- We support you through the whole process, so you never feel alone
Our focus is on trust, transparency, and a smooth, stress-free treatment journey.
Read More: Best Knee Replacement Surgery in Delhi – Top Orthopedic Surgeons
Start Your Journey Toward Parenthood Today
Our specialists are here to guide you with compassion, expertise, and personalized care every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)
There are three: total, half (hemi arthroplasty), and patellofemoral (kneecap)
replacement.
Total knee replacement is the most common type done in America.
It replaces the inside part, the outside part, and the kneecap area of the knee.
It is a half knee replacement. Only one half of the knee is replaced and the rest is left
alone.
Usually the inside half. Replacing only the outside half is rare.
It is done through a minimally invasive approach, which means a smaller surgical opening.
