At least one-quarter of American adults struggle with chronic knee pain. For many, the symptoms of knee osteoarthritis, including pain, stiffness, and movement challenges, become debilitating. That’s when modern joint replacement surgery can come in to provide reliable relief and restored function.
Dr. Sarkis Bedikian, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon known for using state-of-the-art surgical techniques, offers total knee replacements in Palos Hills and Mokena, IL. He uses the most innovative, up-to-date approaches, including robotic knee replacement and navigation-assisted knee replacement, to ensure precision and faster recovery.
Whether a patient needs a partial or total knee replacement depends on the extent of joint damage and the unique circumstances. Read on to learn the differences between the two surgeries.
Partial Knee Replacement
Partial knee replacement, sometimes called unicompartmental replacement, is designed for patients whose arthritis affects only one part of the knee. Usually, this means arthritis in the inner (medial) compartment.
Instead of replacing the entire joint, it involves removing and resurfacing only the damaged cartilage and bone, preserving as much natural tissue and ligament structure as possible. However, partial knee replacement doesn’t guarantee that a patient won’t need a total knee replacement later. That’s why, especially in the case of osteoarthritis that’s likely to spread, Dr. Bedikian may recommend a total knee replacement.
Total Knee Replacement
Total knee replacement is usually recommended when arthritis or joint degeneration involves multiple compartments of the knee. During this procedure, Dr. Bedikian resurfaces the entire joint surface and replaces it with custom-fit components that mimic the knee’s natural anatomy. Dr. Bedikian often uses the Conformis system—customized implants designed specifically for each patient’s anatomy to achieve a natural range of motion and stable alignment.
Total knee replacement can restore function for patients with severe pain or deformity who haven’t responded to conservative treatments like therapy or medication. Though the recovery period is slightly longer than with partial replacement, today’s minimally invasive and computer-assisted techniques help minimize discomfort and speed the return to activity.
Dr. Bedikian offers Jiffy Knee Replacement, a technique designed for even faster recovery and less post-operative pain. Combined with robotics or OrthAlign navigation, this approach allows for high surgical precision with smaller incisions and quicker rehabilitation.
Making the Right Choice: Partial vs. TKR
The best procedure depends on the pattern of arthritis, overall joint health, and patient goals. Dr. Bedikian evaluates each case individually using advanced imaging and diagnostic technology to recommend the most effective solution. Regardless of the specific surgery, his goal remains the same: to restore function, relieve pain, and help patients move confidently again.
Schedule an appointment today: Call 708-237-7200 to meet Dr. Bedikian in Palos Hills or Mokena, IL.
