Lateral Partial Knee Replacement Surgeon

If lateral knee arthritis is limiting your mobility, schedule a consultation with Dr. Prem Ramkumar to learn if a lateral partial knee replacement is right for you. Dr. Ramkumar offers advanced, personalized treatment for lateral compartment knee arthritis, helping patients reduce pain, restore movement, and return to active living with faster recovery than total knee replacement. Take the first step toward lasting relief today. Dr. Ramkumar is located in Long Beach and serves patients in Los Angeles, Orange County, and surrounding Southern California areas. Contact Dr. Ramkumar’s office today!

What Is a Lateral Partial Knee Replacement?

A lateral partial knee replacement is a procedure that treats arthritis isolated to the outer (lateral) side of the knee. Instead of replacing the entire joint, only the damaged lateral compartment is addressed, while the healthy parts of the knee are preserved.

What Symptoms Suggest You May Need a Lateral Partial Knee Replacement?

Patients who may benefit from a lateral partial knee replacement often have pain on the outside of the knee. This is commonly associated with a knock-knee alignment (valgus knee), where the knee angles inward. Imaging, such as X-rays, typically shows cartilage wear limited to the lateral compartment. Often times, patients who have had a failed ACL reconstruction or non-operatively treated ACL injury will develop lateral knee arthritis and can progress to a partial lateral knee replacement. This was related to the case of Lindsey Vonn.

Why Is Lateral Partial Knee Replacement Less Common?

Lateral compartment arthritis is less common than medial arthritis, which is why lateral partial knee replacement is performed less frequently. Additionally, the anatomy and mechanics of the lateral side of the knee can make both diagnosis and treatment more difficult.

Is Lateral Partial Knee Replacement More Complex?

Yes!  In many cases lateral partial knee replacement is more technically demanding. This is because the lateral compartment of the knee has different biomechanics compared to the medial side. Achieving proper implant positioning and alignment is critical to ensure stability and long-term success. This is why it’s important to see an orthopedic surgeon like Dr. Ramkumar who’s surgical experience and precision offer the best outcome for this type of replacement.

How Do Outcomes of Lateral Partial Knee Replacement Compare to Medial Partial Knee Replacement?

When performed in the right patient, outcomes for lateral partial knee replacement can be excellent and comparable to medial partial knee procedures. However, because it is less commonly performed and more technically complex, careful patient selection and surgical expertise play a key role in achieving these results.

Who Is an Ideal Candidate for a Lateral Partial Knee Replacement?

The ideal candidate is someone who has:

For these patients, a lateral partial knee replacement can provide pain relief while preserving more natural knee function.