Replace only what needs replacing.
When arthritis is confined to one part of the knee, a partial replacement resurfaces only that area — preserving the healthy parts of the joint and offering a faster, more natural-feeling recovery.
Book a ConsultationThe knee has three compartments: the medial (inner), lateral (outer), and patellofemoral (behind the kneecap). Total knee replacement resurfaces all three. Partial knee replacement — also called unicompartmental knee replacement — resurfaces only the compartment that is worn, leaving the healthy cartilage and ligaments in the rest of the knee intact.
Because less bone is removed and the healthy parts of the knee are preserved, partial replacement tends to feel more natural than a total knee replacement. Recovery is generally faster, and the intact cruciate ligaments allow the knee to move in a more anatomical way.
Partial knee replacement suits patients whose arthritis is genuinely confined to one compartment — most commonly the medial (inner) compartment. The ideal candidate has isolated single-compartment arthritis confirmed on X-ray, intact cruciate ligaments, and a stable, correctable deformity.
Partial knee replacement is performed under general or spinal anaesthesia. Dr Mooney uses a curved lateral incision, positioned to the outer side of the kneecap. Because only one compartment is being resurfaced, the surrounding tissues are less disturbed — which is one of the reasons recovery is generally faster than total knee replacement.
Dr Mooney uses the Stryker MAKO robotic system for partial knee replacement. MAKO is particularly well-suited to unicompartmental replacement — it provides a patient-specific 3D plan and constrains bone resection to a precise safe zone. The operation typically takes 60–75 minutes.
Partial replacement is suitable when arthritis is confined to one compartment, with intact cruciate ligaments and a stable knee. Dr Mooney will review your X-rays and examination findings at your consultation to determine the best option.
Total knee replacement resurfaces all three knee compartments. Partial replacement resurfaces only the worn compartment, preserving the healthy parts of the joint. Recovery is typically faster and the knee often feels more natural, but not everyone is a candidate.
Yes. If a partial knee replacement does not provide adequate relief, or if arthritis progresses to other compartments over time, conversion to total knee replacement is possible. The revision surgery is generally more straightforward than converting a failed total knee.
Yes. Dr Mooney uses the MAKO robotic system for partial knee replacement. The precision of robotic assistance is particularly valuable when working in a single compartment.
Fees are based on AMA recommended rates. Your out-of-pocket cost depends on your health fund and cover. Call the rooms or see the Fees page.
Dr Luke Mooney is an Adelaide orthopaedic surgeon who has built his surgical practice around hip and knee surgery. He trained in robotic-assisted joint replacement in Perth — one of the first surgeons in Australia to complete a dedicated robotic fellowship — and has since performed hundreds of hip and knee procedures at Orthopaedics 360 in Eastwood.
Dr Mooney is a Clinical Senior Lecturer at the University of Adelaide. He holds the qualifications MBBS, FRACS, and FAOrthA. When you see Dr Mooney, you see Dr Mooney — at every appointment, at surgery, and at every follow-up.
About Dr Mooney →Call the rooms or submit an online enquiry. A GP referral is required for Medicare rebate purposes. Dr Mooney’s team will be in touch to confirm your appointment.