1. By Michael Clarke, Syracuse

2.  An adult reconstructive surgeon, Dr. Michael Clarke
practices with Syracuse Orthopaedic Specialists in upstate
New York. Dr. Michael Clarke of Syracuse has formally
studied joint arthroplasty procedures, including partial
knee replacement.
Developed as an alternative to total knee arthroplasty for
qualified patients, the partial knee replacement is called
that because the patient receives implants in place of the
original inside just one compartment of the knee. Unlike a
total knee replacement, this procedure preserves all knee
ligaments, including both cruciate ligaments. The
minimally invasive approach also protects more of the
surrounding tissue and allows for more natural mechanics
in the reconstructed knee.

3.  The procedure, which may support earlier
intervention, may be an option for up to 70
percent of patients who would otherwise receive
a total knee replacement. It is typically
recommended for patients with medial and
anterior knee pain who have stable knees and a
near-normal range of motion. The procedure has
become particularly popular with patients who
are younger and more active, as the period of
adaptation to the new knee shape and type of
motion is often shorter.