When should I see a surgeon to ask about a partial knee replacement?

Signs it is worth asking

• Pain you can point to on one side of the knee, most often the inner side
• Pain on walking, standing or stairs that is affecting work, prayer or sleep
• Physiotherapy, weight management, pain relief and perhaps injections have been tried properly
• The knee still bends well and straightens nearly fully
• X-rays you have seen already mention arthritis mainly in one compartment

Why timing can matter

A partial replacement needs the other compartments, the ACL and the movement of the knee to be in good condition. If arthritis is left for a long time, it can spread, the deformity can become fixed, or the knee can stiffen. At that point a total replacement may become the more reliable choice. That does not mean rushing, but it is a reason not to delay an assessment when symptoms are steadily worsening.

When a partial is probably not the answer

Pain all around the knee or mainly behind the kneecap, inflammatory arthritis such as rheumatoid arthritis, a torn or absent ACL with instability, a very stiff knee, or a large fixed deformity usually point away from a partial replacement. In younger patients with a bowed leg, an osteotomy may be considered instead.

What to bring and what happens in Doha

Bring previous X-rays, MRI reports and a list of treatments you have tried. At Aman Hospital, Dr. Gelber examines the knee, checks ligament stability and movement, and arranges standing X-rays, sometimes with stress views or an MRI to confirm that only one area is worn. You will get a clear explanation of whether a partial replacement suits you, and of the alternatives.