Last Updated on November 18, 2025 by Ugurkan Demir

For those facing knee surgery, knowing the time and recovery is key. At Liv Hospital, we focus on patient care and international standards. This helps you decide between partial knee replacement and total knee replacement.
We follow international standards and offer top-notch care for patients from around the world. Our skilled surgeons aim for the best results. For example, partial knee replacements last 45 minutes to 2 hours. Total knee replacements take 2-3 hours.
It’s important to know about the different knee replacement surgery options. This surgery can greatly improve life for those with knee damage or arthritis. It’s a big decision that can change your life for the better.
There are two main types of knee replacement surgeries: partial and total knee replacement. Partial knee replacement only fixes the damaged part of the knee. It keeps the healthy parts intact. Total knee replacement replaces the whole knee joint with artificial parts.
Choosing between these depends on how damaged your knee is and your health. We’ll look at each option to see which is best for you.
Surgery is needed when other treatments like medicine or physical therapy don’t work. It’s chosen when knee damage makes daily life hard.
Severe arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or major knee injuries might mean you need surgery. We check your condition to decide the best treatment.
Figuring out if you need knee replacement surgery involves a detailed check-up. An orthopedic specialist will examine you, use imaging tests, and look at your medical history.
We consider how damaged your knee is, your health, and your lifestyle to suggest the right treatment. Our team at Liv Hospital is here to support you every step of the way.
Partial knee replacement has changed how we treat knee arthritis. It lets surgeons focus on just the damaged part. This is less invasive than total knee replacement and offers many benefits.
Partial knee replacement means replacing only the damaged part of the knee. It keeps the healthy parts intact. This method is also called unicompartmental knee replacement because it usually replaces one of the knee’s three parts.
Not everyone can get a partial knee replacement. The best candidates have damage in just one part of the knee and healthy tissue around it. We check who’s a good fit by looking at their medical history, doing physical exams, and using imaging tests.
The knee has three parts: the medial, lateral, and patellofemoral compartments. Damage can happen in one or more of these. For a partial knee replacement, the surgeon replaces the damaged part with an artificial one.
| Characteristics | Partial Knee Replacement | Total Knee Replacement |
|---|---|---|
| Extent of Surgery | Replaces only the damaged compartment | Replaces the entire knee joint |
| Candidate Selection | Ideal for those with damage limited to one compartment | Suitable for those with widespread knee damage |
| Recovery Time | Generally quicker recovery | Longer recovery period |
For more detailed information on partial knee replacement, patients can visit our resource page: Partial Knee Replacement.
Total knee replacement surgery is a top choice for those with severe knee damage. It replaces the knee joint with artificial parts. This helps ease pain and improve movement.
Total knee replacement, or total knee arthroplasty, is a surgery. It replaces the knee joint with artificial parts. These parts include the femoral, tibial, and patellar components. They work together to move like a natural knee.
Those with severe knee arthritis or injury might need this surgery. Doctors decide based on medical history, physical exams, and imaging tests.
The process of total knee replacement includes several steps. Here’s what happens:
The details of the process can differ based on the case and surgeon. But the main goal is to give a pain-free, functional knee.
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Surgical Time | Typically 2 to 3 hours |
| Hospital Stay | Usually 1 to 3 days |
| Recovery Time | Several weeks to months for full recovery |
Knowing about total knee replacement helps prepare for surgery and recovery. It leads to better results and a return to normal life.
The journey to a successful knee replacement starts long before surgery. Thorough pre-surgical preparation is key for a smooth recovery. At Liv Hospital, we help our patients prepare well for their knee replacement surgery.
We conduct detailed medical evaluations before surgery. This includes blood work, imaging studies, and other tests to check for risks. Our team works with the patient and their doctor to review these results and improve their health before surgery.
We also check the patient’s heart health, if needed. This might involve talking to cardiologists to lower surgery risks.
We ask patients about all medications they’re taking. We then advise on any changes needed to avoid surgery or healing issues. For example, stopping blood thinners might be necessary to reduce bleeding risks. Our team gives clear instructions on medication changes.
“It’s important to follow your healthcare team’s medication guidelines for your safety during and after surgery.”
Preparing your home for recovery can greatly improve your comfort and healing. We suggest:
On surgery day, patients should:
Our team will guide you through everything, from preparation to recovery. We aim to make sure you’re comfortable and informed at every step.
| Pre-Surgical Step | Description | Responsibility |
|---|---|---|
| Medical Evaluations | Comprehensive health assessment | Hospital Medical Team |
| Medication Adjustments | Review and adjust current medications | Patient and Medical Team |
| Home Preparation | Prepare home for post-surgery recovery | Patient and Family/Caregivers |
| Day-of-Surgery | Follow pre-surgery instructions and arrive on time | Patient |
When you think about knee replacement, knowing how long the surgery takes is key. We’ll look at what affects the surgery’s length.
Partial knee replacement surgery usually lasts 45 minutes to 2 hours. This can change based on how complex the case is and the surgeon’s skill.
Several things can change how long the surgery takes. These include:
Minimally invasive methods have changed partial knee replacement surgery. They use smaller cuts and less damage, which might make the surgery shorter and recovery faster.
The time in the operating room includes getting ready and anesthesia. We make sure patients are comfortable and ready for the surgery.
As one study noted,
“The use of minimally invasive techniques in partial knee replacement has been shown to reduce recovery time and improve patient outcomes.”
Total knee replacement surgery is a detailed process that needs careful planning. The time it takes can change based on several things.
This surgery usually lasts 2 to 3 hours. This includes getting ready, the surgery, and the first part of recovery.
Many things can affect how long the surgery is. These include:
New surgical methods and technology have changed total knee replacement surgery. Computer-assisted surgery and minimally invasive techniques can make the surgery shorter and recovery better.
| Surgical Technique | Average Duration | Recovery Time |
|---|---|---|
| Traditional TKR | 2-3 hours | 6-12 weeks |
| Computer-Assisted TKR | 2-3 hours | 6-12 weeks |
| Minimally Invasive TKR | 1.5-2.5 hours | 4-8 weeks |
Time in pre-operative and post-operative rooms also counts. Getting ready before surgery takes about 1 hour. After, recovery can take 1-2 hours before moving to a hospital room or going home.
Knowing how long total knee replacement surgery takes and what affects it helps patients prepare. Talking to their healthcare provider can give them a better idea of what to expect.
Knowing how long it takes to recover from knee surgery is key. The time it takes for partial and total knee replacements to heal is different. This affects how patients plan and what they expect.
The time spent in the hospital is a big part of getting better. People getting a partial knee replacement usually stay less time than those getting a total knee replacement.
| Surgery Type | Average Hospital Stay |
|---|---|
| Partial Knee Replacement | 1-2 days |
| Total Knee Replacement | 2-4 days |
In the first six weeks, patients see big improvements. Those with partial knee replacement often get back to normal faster, within six weeks.
But, total knee replacement patients need more time. They might take longer to get back their strength and mobility. Yet, with the right rehab, most see big progress in three months.
Getting back to full strength and mobility takes time. Total knee replacement patients might need up to six months. But, those with partial knee replacement usually get there faster.
When you can go back to work and normal activities depends on your surgery and how you heal. People with partial knee replacement can usually go back to work in 6-8 weeks. Those with total knee replacement might take 8-12 weeks or more.
It’s very important to follow your doctor’s advice and rehab plan. This helps you get the best results.
Recovering from knee replacement surgery requires careful planning. This includes choosing the right pain management and rehabilitation. These choices depend on whether you had a partial or total knee replacement. Knowing the differences helps patients make better decisions about their care.
Post-operative pain can vary a lot between partial and total knee replacements. Partial knee replacement causes less tissue disruption, leading to less pain after surgery. Research shows that people with partial knee replacements often feel less pain and recover faster than those with total knee replacements.
Physical therapy is key for both partial and total knee replacements. But, the amount and length of therapy can differ. Patients with partial knee replacements usually need less intense therapy and can get back to normal activities sooner than those with total knee replacements.
The need for pain medication and how long it’s needed also varies. People with partial knee replacements often need less medication for a shorter time. This is because partial knee replacement is less invasive.
The time it takes to get back to daily activities also differs. Generally, those with partial knee replacements can get back to their daily routines sooner than those with total knee replacements. Here’s a comparison of recovery times in the table below.
| Activity | Partial Knee Replacement | Total Knee Replacement |
|---|---|---|
| Light Activities | 1-2 weeks | 2-4 weeks |
| Moderate Activities | 4-6 weeks | 6-8 weeks |
| Strenuous Activities | 8-12 weeks | 12-16 weeks |
In conclusion, both partial and total knee replacements have their own recovery paths. Understanding the differences in pain management and rehabilitation can greatly impact recovery. By picking the right surgery and following a personalized rehabilitation plan, patients can achieve the best results.
When thinking about knee replacement surgery, it’s important to know about the longevity and costs of partial and total knee replacements. Both options have improved a lot, giving patients good choices for knee problems. But, picking one means looking at both the surgery’s immediate results and how long it lasts, plus the cost.
Partial knee replacements seem to last a long time, over 10 to 15 years. The newer implants and materials help them last longer. A study in an orthopedic journal showed that these replacements last over 90% at 10 years.
“Partial knee replacements are appealing because they’re less invasive and might heal faster,” says a top orthopedic surgeon.
Total knee replacements are very durable, lasting 15 to 20 years or more. The success of total knee replacements comes from better surgery and implants. A meta-analysis found that total knee replacements last about 85% at 15 years.
Many things affect how long partial and total knee replacements last, including:
Knowing these factors helps manage expectations and get the best results.
Choosing between partial and total knee replacement surgery is a big decision. It needs careful thought about many factors. We’ve looked at the differences between these surgeries, like their procedures, recovery times, pain management, and how long they last.
At Liv Hospital, we know how important it is to make the right choice for knee surgery. Our team of skilled orthopedic surgeons and healthcare experts are here to help. They provide top-notch care and support for patients from around the world.
Understanding partial and total knee replacement surgeries helps patients make better choices. They can pick the option that fits their needs and hopes. We suggest talking to our specialists to figure out the best treatment for each person.
It’s key to make a well-informed decision about knee surgery for the best results. We’re committed to helping our patients every step of the way. We aim to give them the best care possible.
Partial knee replacement fixes only the damaged part of the knee. Total knee replacement replaces the whole knee joint.
This surgery takes 45 minutes to 2 hours. It depends on the surgery’s complexity and the surgeon’s skill.
It usually takes 2 to 3 hours. This includes preparation and recovery time.
It has many benefits. These include less tissue damage, quicker healing, and smaller cuts.
Those with damage in just one part of the knee are good candidates. This is usually in one compartment.
Knee replacements can last 15 to 20 years or more. This depends on the implant, activity level, and health.
Recovery times vary. Partial knee replacement has a shorter stay and recovery. Total knee replacement needs a longer stay and rehab.
Pain levels vary. But, most patients feel a lot of pain relief thanks to new pain management and rehab.
Costs depend on the procedure, hospital stay, and rehab. Contact Liv Hospital for detailed costs.
Stay times differ. Partial knee replacement patients might leave in a few days. Total knee replacement patients need a longer stay.
Our team at Liv Hospital will check your health and history. Some conditions might need special care during surgery.
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