Question 1

How do I book a consultation with Dr Oosthuizen?

Accepted Answer

Use the Book Consultation button on this page or the Contact page. Submit your name, contact details and a brief description of your symptoms. The rooms will respond within one business day to confirm an appointment time.

Question 2

What should I bring to the first appointment?

Accepted Answer

Bring any recent X-rays or MRI scans (digital or printed), a list of medications, your medical aid details and a brief summary of previous knee treatments or surgeries. If you have completed the Knee Check, your report will already be on file.

Question 3

How long is the first consultation?

Accepted Answer

Plan for around 45 minutes. Dr Oosthuizen will review your imaging, examine your knee, and explain your treatment options — conservative, partial knee (UKA), or total knee — together with realistic recovery expectations.

Question 4

Who is a candidate for partial knee replacement (UKA)?

Accepted Answer

Most candidates have arthritis isolated to one compartment of the knee, intact cruciate ligaments, and pain that limits daily activity despite conservative treatment. Age alone is not a barrier — fitness, bone quality and activity goals matter more.

Question 5

Who is NOT a good candidate for UKA?

Accepted Answer

Patients with multi-compartment arthritis, inflammatory arthritis (e.g. rheumatoid), significant ligament damage, severe deformity or end-stage disease are usually better served by a total knee replacement. The KOGS grading system helps stage this objectively.

Question 6

Do you accept medical aid?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Dr Oosthuizen's practice works with all major South African medical aids. Authorisation requirements depend on your scheme and plan; the rooms will assist with quotes and pre-authorisation once a treatment plan is agreed.

Question 7

Can I book a virtual or second-opinion consultation?

Accepted Answer

Yes. If you are out of Gauteng or want a second opinion, the rooms can arrange a video consultation. Please upload your imaging in advance via the Contact form.

Question 8

How much help do I need at home after a partial knee replacement?

Accepted Answer

Partial knee replacement (UKA) is a much smaller operation than a total knee replacement, and the help you'll need at home reflects that. Most patients can stand and walk with a frame or crutches within hours of surgery, and the majority are independent for bathroom and kitchen tasks within 3–5 days. For the first 1–2 weeks, having a partner, family member or friend on hand for meals, laundry, driving to physiotherapy and reaching items in low cupboards makes recovery far smoother. Live-alone patients usually arrange a friend to stay over for the first 5–7 nights, or move in with family for the first fortnight. By week 3 most patients are walking unaided around the house, climbing stairs one at a time and managing their own showering and dressing. Driving usually returns at 2–4 weeks depending on which knee was operated. If you live alone and have no support nearby, mention this in your pre-operative consultation so we can plan additional input from a home-based physiotherapist or carer.

Question 9

Should I have a partial or a total knee replacement?

Accepted Answer

Your knee has three compartments: medial (inside), lateral (outside) and patellofemoral (under the kneecap). A partial knee replacement (UKA) resurfaces only the worn compartment, leaving healthy bone, cartilage and all four major ligaments intact. A total knee replacement (TKR) resurfaces all three compartments and sacrifices the anterior cruciate ligament. Partial replacement is the right choice when arthritis is confined to one compartment, the ligaments are intact and the deformity is correctable. The benefits are well documented: shorter hospital stay, faster recovery, a more natural-feeling knee, better range of motion and lower complication rates. Total replacement remains the right answer when arthritis affects two or three compartments, the ACL is deficient, or there is severe fixed deformity. KOGS grading (the system Dr Oosthuizen developed) is used in consultation to score your suitability for UKA objectively rather than by surgeon preference alone.

Question 10

How quickly can I return to work after a partial knee replacement?

Accepted Answer

Return-to-work timing depends almost entirely on what your job demands of your knee. Office and desk-based workers typically return to part-time work within 2 weeks and full-time within 3–4 weeks, particularly if they can work from home for the first portion. Jobs with moderate standing and walking — teaching, nursing on light duties, retail with sitting available — generally resume at 4–6 weeks. Heavy manual work, ladder work, scaffolding, prolonged kneeling or squatting, and emergency services usually need 8–12 weeks before full duties. Driving returns at 2–4 weeks (later for right-knee surgery) and is usually the practical limit for commuting. If your employer offers phased return-to-work, take it — fatigue is a bigger limiter than pain by week 3.

Question 11

What does a partial knee replacement cost in South Africa without medical aid?

Accepted Answer

For self-funding (cash-pay) patients in South Africa, a partial knee replacement at a private hospital typically costs between R130 000 and R220 000 inclusive of surgeon, anaesthetist, hospital, implant and standard post-op physiotherapy. Pricing varies with hospital, implant choice and length of stay. Most private hospitals offer a fixed-fee package for cash-pay patients which removes the uncertainty of itemised billing. Our rooms can request a written quote on your behalf — it lists the surgeon fee, anaesthetic fee, theatre and hospital fee, implant cost and an estimate for post-operative consultations. International patients are welcome and the package usually includes the surgery, two follow-up consultations and a written report for your home surgeon. Travel, accommodation and additional rehabilitation are quoted separately.

Question 12

Is it worth having a partial knee replacement first instead of jumping to a total?

Accepted Answer

It's a common misconception that a partial knee replacement is a 'stop-gap' before total replacement. When the indication is correct — single-compartment arthritis, intact ligaments, correctable deformity — UKA is the definitive operation, not a delay. Modern UKA implants have 10-year survival rates above 92% in registry data, and revision to a total knee replacement, if ever needed, is a straightforward operation with outcomes similar to a primary TKR. You don't 'use up' your knee by having a partial first. What you gain by choosing UKA when you qualify is better function, faster recovery and a more natural-feeling knee for what is often 15–20 years of normal use. That is worth a great deal more than waiting for the knee to deteriorate enough to 'justify' a total replacement.

Question 13

When is the worst pain after a partial knee replacement?

Accepted Answer

Most patients describe day-of-surgery as surprisingly comfortable thanks to local anaesthetic injected into the joint during surgery and strong pain control while in hospital. Pain typically peaks between days 2 and 4 as that local block wears off and swelling reaches its maximum. From day 4 onward, pain improves steadily. By two weeks most patients are off opioid pain medication entirely and managing with paracetamol and an anti-inflammatory. Nighttime is often the most uncomfortable period for the first 10 days — elevation, ice and a pillow between the knees help significantly. If pain is sharply worsening rather than gradually settling, or if the knee becomes hot, very red or much more swollen, contact the rooms — these are not normal and need to be assessed.

Question 14

What is the best age for a partial knee replacement?

Accepted Answer

There is no 'right' age for a partial knee replacement. The decision is driven by the pattern of arthritis, the condition of your ligaments, your symptoms and your activity goals — not a number on a chart. Younger patients (40s–50s) often benefit most because UKA preserves bone and ligaments for any future surgery, returns them to higher activity, and feels more natural than a total knee. Older patients (70s–80s) benefit from the smaller operation, shorter hospital stay and quicker rehabilitation. The historical idea that you should 'wait until you're older' for knee replacement is outdated. Living with disabling knee pain shortens healthy life expectancy and damages other joints by changing the way you move.

Question 15

How long is the full recovery from a partial knee replacement?

Accepted Answer

Recovery happens in three overlapping phases. The first phase (weeks 0–2) is about wound healing, basic mobility and getting off crutches. Most patients walk unaided indoors by 2 weeks. The second phase (weeks 2–12) is about strength, range of motion and returning to daily life. Driving usually returns at 2–4 weeks, desk work at 2–3 weeks, and most patients are walking 30+ minutes comfortably and back to gentle gym work by 6–8 weeks. The third phase (months 3–12) is about full functional return. The knee continues to improve, swelling continues to settle and proprioception keeps refining. Most patients say their knee feels essentially 'normal' between 6 and 12 months. UKA recovery is notably faster than total knee replacement at every phase.

Question 16

What are the disadvantages of a partial knee replacement?

Accepted Answer

The two genuine downsides of UKA are patient selection and the possibility of disease progression. Only about 30–50% of arthritic knees are suitable for a partial replacement, so it is not an option for everyone. Because UKA only treats the worn compartment, arthritis can theoretically develop later in the untouched compartments. In practice this is uncommon when patient selection is correct, but a small percentage of UKAs (around 5–8% at 10 years) eventually need conversion to a total knee replacement. Set against these are clear advantages: shorter operation, less blood loss, smaller scar, faster recovery, more natural knee feel, preserved ligaments and lower complication rates. For the right patient, the trade is overwhelmingly favourable.

Question 17

Who is a candidate for partial knee replacement?

Accepted Answer

Candidacy is assessed against four criteria. First, arthritis must be confined to one compartment — usually the medial side. Second, the cruciate ligaments (especially the ACL) must be functional, since UKA relies on the patient's own ligaments to balance the knee. Third, any deformity (typically a bow-legged or knock-knee appearance) must be correctable — meaning the knee can be brought back to neutral alignment on examination. Fourth, the bone must be of reasonable quality on X-ray and clinical examination. Age, weight and activity level affect outcomes but rarely rule out UKA outright. The KOGS grading system used in our practice scores all four criteria objectively so the decision is data-driven and reproducible, not based on surgeon preference.

Question 18

How well can I bend my knee after a partial knee replacement?

Accepted Answer

One of the strongest advantages of UKA over total knee replacement is range of motion. Because the cruciate ligaments and the unaffected compartments are preserved, the natural mechanics of the knee are kept. Most UKA patients achieve 120–135° of flexion — enough to kneel, squat, cycle, garden, climb stairs normally and rise easily from a low chair. Patients commonly recover the same range they had before surgery, plus the comfort of having lost the bone-on-bone pain. Range improves over the first 6–12 weeks with consistent physiotherapy. Sitting cross-legged, gentle squats and cycling on a stationary bike are all encouraged once the wound has healed.

Question 19

How much time off work should I plan for after knee surgery?

Accepted Answer

For a partial knee replacement, plan a minimum of 2–3 weeks completely off, with a phased return after that. For total knee replacement, plan 4–6 weeks off plus a phased return. Office and sedentary work can resume earlier if you can work from home, take breaks to elevate the leg and avoid commuting. Roles requiring continuous standing, walking long distances, climbing, kneeling or driving for long periods need substantially longer — typically 8–12 weeks for partial and 12+ weeks for total. Ask the rooms for a written medical certificate at your pre-operative visit so you can submit it to HR in advance. We can also provide a 'fit-to-work with restrictions' note for a phased return.

Question 20

What is the most common type of partial knee replacement?

Accepted Answer

The medial unicompartmental knee replacement (medial UKA) is the most common type because the medial (inside) compartment carries more load than the lateral side and is the first to wear out in most patients. Lateral UKA, addressing the outer compartment, is less common but increasingly successful with modern implants and improved understanding of the lateral compartment's unique biomechanics. Patellofemoral replacement (resurfacing under the kneecap) is the third type and is reserved for isolated patellofemoral arthritis. In our practice, medial UKA is supported by long-term published outcomes specific to South African patients.

Question 21

When can I drive again after a partial knee replacement?

Accepted Answer

Driving safely requires the leg to be off all opioid pain medication, to bend enough to operate the pedals comfortably and to react quickly enough for an emergency stop. For left-knee surgery with an automatic vehicle, most patients are safe to drive at 1–2 weeks. For right-knee surgery, plan 3–4 weeks — reaction times measurably worsen in the first 3 weeks regardless of how the knee feels. Before driving for the first time, test the leg in a stationary car: can you slam the brake hard without hesitation? If not, give it another week. Check that your motor insurance does not require formal medical clearance after surgery.

Question 22

Does medical aid cover partial knee replacement in South Africa?

Accepted Answer

In South Africa, hip and knee replacement is classified as a Prescribed Minimum Benefit (PMB) under the Medical Schemes Act. This means every registered medical scheme must cover the diagnosis and treatment, including hospitalisation and implant, when the clinical criteria are met. Co-payments and shortfalls vary by plan. Hospital plans typically cover the hospital and implant fully; surgeon, anaesthetist and physiotherapy fees may attract a shortfall depending on whether the practice charges at scheme rates or above. Our rooms obtain pre-authorisation from your scheme before surgery and provide you with a written estimate of any expected shortfall so there are no surprises. Gap cover insurance, if you have it, usually covers the surgeon and anaesthetist shortfall.

Question 23

Should I try physical therapy before a partial knee replacement?

Accepted Answer

Physiotherapy, weight loss, anti-inflammatories, injections and activity modification are always tried first. Many patients with early arthritis improve substantially without ever needing surgery, and we will not recommend a UKA if conservative treatment is still working for you. Where physiotherapy stops being effective is when the cartilage damage is structural — bone-on-bone on X-ray, deformity that cannot be corrected, pain at rest or pain that wakes you at night. At that point, no amount of strengthening will rebuild lost cartilage. Once arthritis crosses this threshold, partial knee replacement reliably out-performs continued non-surgical care for pain relief, function and quality of life. The decision is about timing rather than choosing between two competing treatments.

Question 24

What are the success rates for partial knee replacement?

Accepted Answer

International joint registries (UK, Australia, Sweden) report 10-year implant survival of 92–95% for modern medial UKAs when performed in suitable patients by experienced surgeons. 15-year survival is typically 85–90%. Patient satisfaction is consistently higher than for total knee replacement — over 90% of UKA patients describe their knee as 'forgotten' or 'normal-feeling' in daily life, compared to around 80% after TKR. Outcomes are surgeon-volume sensitive: practices doing more than 30 UKAs a year reliably out-perform low-volume practices. Dr Oosthuizen has performed more than a thousand UKAs and published long-term outcome data on his own series.

Question 25

What activities should I avoid after a partial knee replacement?

Accepted Answer

In the first 6 weeks: avoid impact loading (running, jumping), heavy lifting (>10 kg), prolonged kneeling on the operated knee, and crossing your legs in a way that twists the knee. Climb stairs one at a time and use a handrail. Long-term: avoid contact sports (rugby, soccer, martial arts) and repetitive high-impact running. These do not destroy a UKA overnight but they shorten implant life. Tennis, golf, cycling, hiking, skiing, doubles tennis and swimming are all encouraged. At any time: do not ignore a knee that becomes hot, much more swollen, increasingly painful or starts draining fluid. Dental and other surgical procedures should be discussed with the rooms — antibiotic cover is sometimes recommended for the first 2 years.

Question 26

Can I play sport after a partial knee replacement?

Accepted Answer

Partial knee replacement is specifically designed to allow a return to active life. Cycling, swimming, golf, hiking, doubles tennis, pilates, gym work, social skiing and even gentle jogging are all realistic. Higher-impact and contact sports — competitive running, singles tennis, rugby, soccer, basketball, downhill skiing — are possible but accelerate wear of the implant. Many patients choose to scale them down rather than stop entirely. Return to sport timing: stationary bike at 2 weeks, gym (lower body, light) at 6 weeks, golf at 8–10 weeks, tennis and skiing at 3–4 months. Build up gradually with guidance from your physiotherapist.

Question 27

How long does a partial knee replacement last?

Accepted Answer

Modern UKA implants have a 10-year survival of 92–95% and 15-year survival of 85–90% in published registry data. Average implant lifespan is in the 15–20 year range, with many UKAs lasting longer in lower-demand patients. Implant longevity depends on three things: how well it was implanted (surgeon and technique), how well it fits the patient (correct sizing and alignment) and how it is loaded (body weight and activity). If a UKA wears out or fails later in life, conversion to a total knee replacement is a routine operation with outcomes similar to a primary TKR. Patients should think of UKA as a long-lasting solution that does not burn a bridge.

Question 28

Is physiotherapy essential after a partial knee replacement?

Accepted Answer

Physiotherapy is not optional — it is the most important part of recovery. The surgery removes the painful arthritis; physiotherapy restores the strength, range and balance that the knee needs to work normally. Most patients do 2–3 sessions a week for the first 6 weeks, then weekly for another 4–6 weeks. A good home exercise programme runs alongside, and is what produces the result. Patients who skip rehabilitation often have a knee that feels stiff and weak even though the implant is perfectly placed. We work with a panel of trusted physiotherapists near our rooms and the hospital, and arrange your first session before you leave hospital.

Question 29

What does recovery look like if I'm in my 40s or 50s?

Accepted Answer

Patients in their 40s and 50s generally recover quickest from UKA. Better baseline strength, cardiovascular fitness and faster tissue healing translate to earlier independence, earlier return to work and earlier return to sport. Typical milestones: walking unaided at 7–10 days, driving at 2 weeks, desk work at 2 weeks, gym at 4–6 weeks, sport at 8–12 weeks. By 3–6 months most patients are at or above their pre-arthritis activity level. The 'investment' in a partial knee replacement at this age is high: 15–20 years of pain-free activity, preserved bone for any future surgery, and a knee that feels close to natural. This is exactly the patient group UKA was designed for.

Question 30

If a partial knee fails, can it be converted to a total knee replacement?

Accepted Answer

Conversion of a UKA to a total knee replacement is a well-established operation. Because UKA preserves bone and ligaments, the conversion is closer to a primary total replacement than to a revision surgery in most cases. Published outcomes show that converted knees function well, with similar implant survival and pain scores to first-time total knee replacements. The hospital stay and recovery period are also similar to a primary TKR. Knowing that the bridge to TKR is intact is part of why UKA is the right primary operation for suitable single-compartment arthritis. You do not lose options by choosing it first.

Question 31

What out-of-pocket cost should I expect with medical aid?

Accepted Answer

Because knee replacement is a Prescribed Minimum Benefit, your medical aid pays the hospital and implant in full on most hospital plans. The variable cost is professional fees — surgeon, anaesthetist, physiotherapist — which may attract a shortfall depending on your plan's rate. Typical shortfalls range from R0 to R25 000 in total, often covered by gap cover insurance. Our rooms send you a written quote and the pre-authorisation outcome before surgery so the financial picture is clear in advance. If a shortfall is unaffordable, talk to us — payment plans can be arranged with the practice for the surgeon's portion.

Question 32

What is the actual difference between a partial and a total knee replacement?

Accepted Answer

A partial knee replacement resurfaces one of the three compartments of the knee — most commonly the medial side. The other two compartments, the cartilage, the menisci and all four major ligaments are left in place. A total knee replacement resurfaces all three compartments and removes the anterior cruciate ligament (and sometimes the posterior cruciate) along the way. The remaining ligaments and the surrounding soft tissues stabilise the knee. Practically, partial means a smaller cut, less bone removed, faster recovery and a more natural-feeling knee — at the cost of stricter patient selection. Total means a more standardised operation that suits any pattern of arthritis but feels less like 'your' knee afterwards.

Question 33

Do patients regret having a partial knee replacement?

Accepted Answer

Reported satisfaction after UKA is consistently above 90% in published series and registries — among the highest of any joint replacement. Regret is uncommon and, when it occurs, is usually linked to expectation: patients who expected a knee identical to age 25 can feel let down even when the knee functions excellently. Genuine regret usually traces back to one of: poor patient selection (UKA done when a total was indicated), under-corrected alignment, an unrecognised second compartment problem, or inadequate rehabilitation. These are reduced dramatically by careful pre-operative assessment (including KOGS grading), high-volume surgical experience and a structured rehabilitation programme — all of which are core to our practice.

Question 34

When can I walk after a partial knee replacement?

Accepted Answer

Walking begins on the day of surgery in most cases. A physiotherapist gets you out of bed within hours of returning to the ward and helps you take the first steps with a walker or crutches. By discharge (usually day 1 or 2 post-op), you should be walking comfortably with crutches, climbing a few stairs and managing the bathroom independently. Crutches are typically used for 7–14 days and then dropped as confidence and strength return. Walking distance increases week by week: 5 minutes at day 5, 20 minutes at week 2, 45 minutes at week 6, full unrestricted walking by 8–12 weeks. Listen to the knee — swelling the next day is a sign you overdid it.

Question 35

How painful is recovery from a partial knee replacement?

Accepted Answer

Honest answer: there is real pain, particularly in the first 7–10 days, but it is consistently rated lower than after total knee replacement. Most patients describe it as manageable with the tablets prescribed and far better than they had feared. Pain control is multi-layered: long-acting local anaesthetic in the joint, regular paracetamol, an anti-inflammatory and short-term opioid tablets for the first 5–10 days. Ice, elevation and early movement do as much for pain as any medication. By 3 weeks most patients are off opioid pain medication. By 6 weeks the knee is sore only after activity. Pain that worsens rather than steadily improves is not normal — contact the rooms.

Question 36

What questions should I ask my surgeon before a knee replacement?

Accepted Answer

Useful questions to bring to your consultation: How many partial knee replacements do you do a year? What proportion of your knee replacements are partial rather than total? Why am I a candidate for partial — or why am I not? Which implant do you use and why? Also ask: What is your complication rate, and how do you manage complications when they occur? What does my recovery realistically look like? When can I return to my specific job and sport? What happens if the implant fails — what would the next operation involve? A surgeon who welcomes these questions and answers them with specific numbers rather than reassurance is one to trust. Bring a partner or friend to take notes — it is hard to absorb everything in one consultation.

Question 37

How do I know when I'm ready for a partial knee replacement?

Accepted Answer

The combination that points to UKA: pain that interferes with sleep, work or activities you value; X-rays showing bone-on-bone arthritis confined to one compartment; and conservative treatment (anti-inflammatories, weight loss, physiotherapy, injections) no longer controlling symptoms. It is not the X-ray alone — many people have impressive X-rays and minimal pain — and it is not the pain alone. The decision is the combination, plus the Knee Check or in-person assessment confirming that the pattern is suitable for partial rather than total replacement. If you are unsure, our Knee Check provides an initial guide, and a consultation gives you a definitive answer with KOGS grading.

Question 38

Does partial knee replacement help with arthritis pain?

Accepted Answer

Osteoarthritis in the knee occurs when cartilage wears away, allowing bone to rub on bone. Partial knee replacement directly resurfaces the worn bone with metal and a polyethylene insert, removing the source of pain. It is the most effective treatment available for single-compartment osteoarthritis once non-surgical care has been exhausted. Pain relief is dramatic and durable: published series report 90%+ pain relief at 10 years. Inflammatory arthritis (rheumatoid, psoriatic) usually affects multiple compartments and is better treated with a total knee replacement, although exceptions exist when disease is well-controlled and confined to one compartment.

Question 39

What do real patients say about partial knee replacement?

Accepted Answer

Three patterns emerge in patient feedback after UKA. First, recovery was faster than expected — most patients describe being surprised by how quickly they were off crutches and walking comfortably. Second, the knee 'feels like my knee' rather than an artificial joint. This is a frequent contrast to friends or family who have had a total replacement. Third, the most common regret is having waited too long. Patients often live with restricted activity for years before surgery, then realise after recovery how much that cost them. Patient testimonials on our home page reflect these themes.

Question 40

How much swelling is normal after a partial knee replacement?

Accepted Answer

Swelling is the body's normal response to surgery. The knee will look noticeably puffy for the first 4–6 weeks, with peak swelling at days 3–5. Mild swelling at the end of an active day can persist for 3–6 months, especially if you have been on your feet. Management: elevate the leg above heart level for 20 minutes several times a day, ice for 15–20 minutes after activity, and wear compression stockings as instructed. Walking actually reduces swelling — bed rest worsens it. Warning signs that need urgent review: sudden one-sided calf swelling and pain (possible blood clot), the knee becoming hot and red (possible infection), or swelling that suddenly worsens after improving.

Question 41

If I'm young, should I have a partial or total knee replacement?

Accepted Answer

For patients under 65 with single-compartment arthritis, partial knee replacement offers three specific advantages: more bone and ligament preserved (important if a second operation is ever needed decades later), more natural knee feel for an active life, and faster recovery to return to work and family. The historical concern — that UKA wears out faster in younger active patients — has been overstated. Registry data shows excellent 10–15 year survival even in active patients, and conversion to TKR remains straightforward later. If you do not qualify for UKA anatomically (multi-compartment disease, ACL deficiency, large fixed deformity), then a well-done total replacement at a younger age is still an excellent operation. The choice is anatomy-driven, not age-driven.

Question 42

What happens if a partial knee replacement fails?

Accepted Answer

Failure of a UKA usually means one of: progressive arthritis in another compartment, loosening of the implant over time, or polyethylene wear. Most failures occur gradually rather than suddenly, with a return of pain and reduced function. Treatment is conversion to a total knee replacement. Because UKA preserves bone, the conversion is closer to a primary TKR than a complex revision in most cases. Published outcomes show implant survival and function similar to a primary total replacement. Failures are rare in the first 10 years (about 5–8%) and almost always manageable. The 'safety net' of straightforward conversion is part of why UKA is a reasonable first operation for the right patient.

Question 43

How does partial knee replacement compare to injections, scopes and total replacement?

Accepted Answer

Cortisone injections relieve pain for weeks to months but do not change the disease. Hyaluronic acid (gel) injections last longer in some patients but have similar limitations. They are useful for buying time, not for solving structural arthritis. Knee arthroscopy ('keyhole surgery') has no role in established osteoarthritis — multiple large trials show it does not change outcomes. It still has a place for mechanical meniscal symptoms in younger knees without arthritis. Total knee replacement is the right answer when arthritis affects more than one compartment, when ligaments are deficient, or when deformity is fixed. For single-compartment arthritis with intact ligaments, partial knee replacement is the definitive treatment with the best functional outcome.

Question 44

Can the Compensation Commissioner (COIDA) cover my partial knee replacement?

Accepted Answer

If your knee arthritis is the direct consequence of a workplace injury or qualifying occupational exposure, the Compensation Commissioner (COIDA) in South Africa covers diagnosis, surgery, hospitalisation and rehabilitation. The link must be documented and accepted by the Commissioner. Practical steps: report the original injury, get clinical records that connect the arthritis to that injury, lodge a claim through your employer, and provide the medical reports the Commissioner requests. Our rooms can prepare the required reports. If the claim is accepted, you are also entitled to compensation for temporary total disability while you are unable to work and, where appropriate, permanent disability if function does not fully recover.

Question 45

What are the most common fears about knee replacement, and are they justified?

Accepted Answer

Fear of pain is the most common. Modern multimodal pain control means most UKA patients describe the pain as 'less than expected'. Genuine severe post-operative pain is unusual. Fear of anaesthesia is the second most common. Modern spinal anaesthesia is extremely safe, and most knee replacements are done under spinal rather than general anaesthesia. Serious anaesthetic complications are very rare. Fear of complications (infection, blood clot, implant failure) is reasonable but the numbers are reassuring: infection <1%, symptomatic blood clot <1% with modern prophylaxis, implant failure <8% at 10 years. Fear of 'will it work?' is best addressed by realistic discussion at consultation — most patients are very satisfied at 6 months.

Question 46

How do I mentally prepare for a knee replacement?

Accepted Answer

Mental preparation is as important as physical preparation, and largely consists of removing unknowns. Read the practice's preparation booklet, attend the pre-operative consultation with a partner, and write down every question. Set realistic expectations: weeks 1–2 are the hardest, week 3 turns a corner, by week 6 you are back into daily life, by 3 months the knee is comfortable, by 6–12 months it feels close to normal. Avoid scrolling worst-case stories online — survivorship bias works in reverse there. Arrange practical support for week one before surgery: meals, transport, somebody to help in and out of the shower. Knowing the plan is set removes a huge amount of pre-op anxiety.

Question 47

How well do partial knee replacements work for active patients?

Accepted Answer

Active patients — people who hike, cycle, ski, play golf or tennis, lift weights or do regular yoga — are exactly the group UKA was designed for. The preserved ligaments and natural knee mechanics translate to a knee that performs well under load. Published outcomes show that 85–90% of active patients return to their pre-arthritis sport, with implant survival comparable to less active groups. Patient-reported outcome scores are often higher in active patients than in sedentary ones. The trade is straightforward: high-impact running and contact sport accelerate wear and are best moderated. Everything else — including most of what active patients value — is encouraged.

Question 48

When does partial knee replacement beat injections and physiotherapy?

Accepted Answer

Injections (cortisone, hyaluronic acid) and physiotherapy are always tried first and often work well for years in earlier arthritis. They reduce pain, strengthen supporting muscles and delay surgery — sometimes indefinitely. They stop being effective once cartilage damage is structural: bone-on-bone X-rays, deformity that cannot be corrected, pain at rest and disturbed sleep. At that point injections give shorter and shorter relief and physiotherapy cannot rebuild the joint. UKA is the right next step at that point. Continuing to inject a structurally failed joint delays definitive treatment, weakens surrounding tissues over time and prolongs avoidable pain.

Question 49

What do the weeks after a partial knee replacement actually look like?

Accepted Answer

Week 1: hospital for 1–2 nights, then home on crutches. Pain peaks days 2–4. Daily physiotherapy exercises, ice, elevation and short walks around the house. Week 2–3: off crutches indoors, driving (left knee), back to desk work part-time. Range of motion 90–110°. Outpatient physiotherapy 2–3 times a week. Week 4–6: walking 30+ minutes comfortably, climbing stairs normally, full-time desk work, stationary bike. Range 110–125°. Week 6–12: light gym, golf, doubles tennis. Most patients describe the knee as 'comfortable' rather than 'still recovering'. Swelling continues to settle in the evenings.

Question 50

What is the typical recovery timeline for a partial knee replacement?

Accepted Answer

Partial knee replacement (UKA) is a smaller, more targeted operation than total knee replacement. Because it resurfaces only the worn compartment and leaves your healthy bone, cartilage and all four major ligaments in place, the recovery timeline is shorter and the milestones arrive earlier. This guide walks through the typical partial knee replacement recovery timeline week by week, so you know what to expect and what to aim for at each stage. Week 1 — Surgery day to day 7: The focus is on getting mobile and controlling pain. Most patients stand and take their first steps with a physiotherapist on the day of surgery, and go home after one night in hospital. Pain is usually well controlled on day 1 thanks to local anaesthetic injected into the joint, then peaks around days 2–4 as the block wears off and swelling increases. Ice, elevation, regular pain medication and short, frequent walks are the main tools. Range of motion is typically 60–90° by the end of the first week. Week 2 — Independence at home: Crutches are usually reduced or dropped indoors, and most patients can manage showering, dressing and simple kitchen tasks independently. Swelling begins to plateau, and many patients switch from opioid pain medication to paracetamol and an anti-inflammatory. If the left knee was operated, driving an automatic car may be possible at 1–2 weeks; right-knee patients usually wait until week 3–4. Range of motion improves to 90–110°. Week 3 — The turning point: By week 3 most patients are walking unaided around the house, climbing stairs one foot after another, and feeling that recovery has turned a corner. Outpatient physiotherapy continues two to three times a week, working on quadriceps control, knee flexion and normal walking pattern. Desk-based workers often return to part-time work from home in week 3. Range of motion is usually 100–120°. Week 4 to 6 — Returning to daily life: Walking distance increases to 30–45 minutes comfortably, and many patients resume full-time desk work by week 4–6. The incision is well healed, swimming and stationary cycling are encouraged, and light gym work can begin under physiotherapy guidance. The 6-week milestone is a major checkpoint: most patients have 110–125° of flexion, minimal swelling by morning, and a knee that feels reliably functional for normal daily activities. Week 7 to 12 — Building strength and activity: Rehabilitation now shifts from recovering range to rebuilding strength, balance and confidence. Golf, doubles tennis, gentle hiking and social skiing typically return between 8 and 12 weeks. The knee continues to feel more natural as proprioception improves — a direct benefit of preserving the cruciate ligaments. High-impact running and contact sport are still best avoided. Three to six months — Settling in: Swelling at the end of an active day can persist for several months, but function is usually near-normal by 3 months. Most patients say the knee feels essentially 'normal' between 6 and 12 months. The smaller incision, minimal bone removal and ligament preservation that make UKA less invasive also mean the knee settles into a more natural pattern of movement than a total replacement. Why UKA recovery is faster: Because the operation preserves bone and ligaments, the knee retains its natural stabilising structures. That means less soft-tissue trauma, a smaller incision, earlier confidence in walking, better range of motion and a quicker return to work and sport. For the right candidate — single-compartment arthritis with intact ligaments and correctable alignment — the partial knee replacement recovery timeline is typically measured in weeks rather than months.

Question 51

What are the best exercises after a partial knee replacement?

Accepted Answer

First 2 weeks: quadriceps sets, straight leg raises, ankle pumps, heel slides for flexion, gentle knee extension over a rolled towel. Short walks several times a day rather than one long walk. Weeks 2–6: stationary bike (no resistance initially), sit-to-stand from a chair, mini-squats holding a counter, calf raises, side-lying hip abduction. Range of motion work to reach 120°+. Weeks 6–12: full bike with light resistance, step-ups, light leg press at the gym, balance work on a single leg, swimming. Build gradually — soreness the next day is the signal to ease back. Your physiotherapist will tailor this for your specific knee.

Question 52

How do I choose the right surgeon for a knee replacement?

Accepted Answer

Volume matters. Surgeons performing more than 50 knee replacements a year — and more than 30 partial knee replacements specifically if you are considering UKA — consistently report lower complication rates and better outcomes. Sub-specialisation matters. An orthopaedic surgeon who focuses on knee surgery and publishes on knee outcomes is a different proposition from a general orthopaedic surgeon doing occasional knees. Communication matters. The surgeon should answer specific questions with specific numbers, welcome second opinions and present both partial and total replacement options where relevant. A surgeon who only ever does one operation is unlikely to be objective about whether you are a candidate for the other.

Question 53

Should I stay in hospital or have a same-day discharge for a partial knee replacement?

Accepted Answer

In South African private practice, partial knee replacement typically involves 1 night in hospital, occasionally 2. This allows pain control to be fine-tuned, the urinary catheter to come out, the first physiotherapy session in hospital and observation for early bleeding or other issues. Same-day discharge is feasible for selected patients: medically well, motivated, with a partner at home, living within reasonable distance of the hospital and prepared to manage at home from the first evening. We discuss this on an individual basis. Longer stays (3–5 nights) are arranged when there are medical concerns, complex social circumstances or international patients needing closer monitoring before flying.

Question 54

What anaesthesia is used for a partial knee replacement?

Accepted Answer

The preferred anaesthetic for knee replacement is a spinal block with light intravenous sedation. The leg is numb from mid-abdomen down, you are relaxed but not deeply asleep, and you avoid most of the side-effects of a general anaesthetic. Benefits over general anaesthesia include less nausea, less drowsiness afterwards, lower risk of blood clots, better early pain control and faster discharge. Most patients prefer it once it is explained. A general anaesthetic remains an option if a spinal is not advisable for you. Either way, the anaesthetist will meet you before surgery, take your history and recommend the safest option.

Question 55

What happens on the day of a partial knee replacement?

Accepted Answer

Admission is usually a few hours before surgery. The nurses will take your observations, check your fasting status, confirm consent and prepare the operative leg. The anaesthetist sees you and the surgeon marks the correct leg with your agreement. Surgery itself takes 60–90 minutes. You are in recovery for about an hour afterwards while the anaesthetic settles and pain is brought under control, then transferred back to the ward. The physiotherapist usually visits within hours of you returning to the ward and helps you take your first steps. Most patients sleep well that first night — the local anaesthetic injected during surgery is still working and the worst of the discomfort is days 2–4 rather than day 1.

Question 56

How should I set up my home before a knee replacement?

Accepted Answer

Clear walkways: remove loose rugs, trailing cables and clutter from the routes between bedroom, bathroom, kitchen and living room. Crutches are unforgiving. Bathroom: a raised toilet seat or commode for the first 2 weeks, a non-slip mat in the shower, a shower chair if you have one, and easy-to-reach toiletries. Kitchen and bedroom: move daily-use items to hip height so you do not need to bend or reach. Cook and freeze a week of meals. Have ice packs in the freezer, a recliner or chair with arms ready, and a comfortable spot to elevate the leg above heart level.

Question 57

What medication will I be on after a knee replacement?

Accepted Answer

A typical regimen: paracetamol regularly for 2–3 weeks, an anti-inflammatory tablet for 2 weeks (if your stomach and kidneys tolerate it), a short course of an opioid such as tramadol for breakthrough pain in the first 5–10 days, and a blood-thinner — usually a small daily tablet — for 2–6 weeks. Anti-nausea tablets and a laxative are prescribed alongside opioids because constipation is almost universal otherwise. Your existing chronic medication is continued unless specifically stopped before surgery. Stop the opioid as soon as you can manage with paracetamol and the anti-inflammatory. Pain that requires escalating opioids beyond two weeks is not normal — let us know.

Question 58

How do I deal with fear before a knee replacement?

Accepted Answer

Pre-operative anxiety is normal and does not predict the outcome of your surgery. It almost always peaks in the days before and settles dramatically once you arrive in hospital and the team takes over. Practical tools: bring a written list of questions to your pre-op consultation, meet the anaesthetist before the day, walk through the day-of-surgery sequence with the rooms, and limit late-night reading of unmoderated online forums. Structured slow breathing (4 seconds in, 6 seconds out, for 5 minutes twice a day) measurably reduces pre-op anxiety. If anxiety is overwhelming, talk to us — a single dose of a mild anxiolytic on the morning of surgery is appropriate for some patients.

Question 59

How much pain relief should I realistically expect after a knee replacement?

Accepted Answer

The pain that brought you to surgery — sharp pain on weight-bearing, ache that disturbs sleep, pain at rest — typically resolves completely after a successful partial knee replacement. This is what makes the operation worthwhile. What you should not expect is a 25-year-old's knee. Mild discomfort at the end of a long day, weather sensitivity in some patients, and a faint awareness of the implant when kneeling are all common and not signs that anything is wrong. If you compare your operated knee to your non-operated knee 12 months later, most patients say the operated side is the more comfortable of the two. That is a reasonable benchmark.

Question 60

When can I resume normal daily activities after a partial knee replacement?

Accepted Answer

Daily activities — cooking, showering, dressing, shopping, walking the dog — return progressively over weeks 2–4. Driving comes back at 2–4 weeks. Desk work at 2–3 weeks. Sport and exercise: stationary bike at 2 weeks, gym at 6 weeks, golf at 8–10 weeks, tennis and skiing at 3–4 months. Build up gradually rather than testing the limit. Long-haul flights, hiking trips and heavy manual work are reasonable at 8–12 weeks. The knee continues to improve up to a year — what feels OK at 12 weeks usually feels better at 6 months.

Question 61

How does partial knee replacement affect specific careers — nursing, trades, emergency services?

Accepted Answer

Nursing, teaching and retail (lots of standing, moderate walking): return at 4–6 weeks part-time, full duties at 6–8 weeks. Trades (electricians, plumbers, carpenters) and emergency services (paramedics, firefighters, police): return at 8–12 weeks for full duties, depending on kneeling and lifting demands. Light duties or restricted roles can usually start earlier. Heavy manual roles (construction, agriculture, mining): 12 weeks minimum, sometimes longer. Pilots and cabin crew have specific aviation medical requirements — we can supply the necessary reports. We tailor advice and certificates to your role at your follow-up appointments.

Question 62

Can I get a written cost breakdown and a payment plan for my surgery?

Accepted Answer

We provide a written quote that itemises surgeon fee, anaesthetist fee, hospital and theatre, implant cost, and an estimate for post-operative consultations and physiotherapy. The hospital and anaesthetist provide their own quotes which we coordinate. For medical aid patients, the quote shows scheme cover, expected shortfall and the role of gap cover insurance if you have it. For self-funding patients, the hospital usually offers a fixed-fee package. Payment plans for the surgeon's professional fee can be arranged in advance — speak to the practice manager. Hospital and implant fees are typically paid up-front or at admission.

Question 63

How do I compare the experience of different knee surgeons?

Accepted Answer

Four specific numbers to ask each surgeon: How many partial knee replacements do you do per year? What is your infection rate? What is your revision rate at 10 years? Do you publish outcomes on your own series? Surgeons doing fewer than 12 UKAs a year consistently report higher revision rates in registry data. Surgeons doing 30+ a year, and surgeons who publish their own outcomes, tend to be in a different performance bracket. It is reasonable and welcome to ask for a second opinion. A confident surgeon supports it; a defensive one is a warning sign.

Question 64

When can I fly internationally after a partial knee replacement?

Accepted Answer

Short-haul flights (under 4 hours) are usually safe from 2–3 weeks post-op with compression stockings and an aisle seat to stretch the leg. Domestic travel for follow-up is fine from week 2. Long-haul flights are generally avoided in the first 4 weeks because of the higher blood clot risk. From 4–6 weeks onwards, long-haul is safe with compression stockings, hourly walking in the aisle, good hydration and continued blood-thinning prophylaxis if still prescribed. International patients flying home: we plan the flight date around your follow-up visit, provide a written medical report and supply a fit-to-fly letter on request.

Your Partial Knee Replacement Questions

Before you book — the essentials

All clinical questions

Still have questions? Request an Appointment

Still need a real answer for your knee?

Orthopaedic emergencies outside consulting hours

Your Partial Knee Replacement Questions

Before you book — the essentials

How do I book a consultation with Dr Oosthuizen?

What should I bring to the first appointment?

How long is the first consultation?

Who is a candidate for partial knee replacement (UKA)?

Who is NOT a good candidate for UKA?

Do you accept medical aid?

Can I book a virtual or second-opinion consultation?

All clinical questions

Pain & RecoveryHow much help do I need at home after a partial knee replacement?

Deciding & EligibilityShould I have a partial or a total knee replacement?

Life After SurgeryHow quickly can I return to work after a partial knee replacement?

Cost & InsuranceWhat does a partial knee replacement cost in South Africa without medical aid?

Deciding & EligibilityIs it worth having a partial knee replacement first instead of jumping to a total?

Pain & RecoveryWhen is the worst pain after a partial knee replacement?

Deciding & EligibilityWhat is the best age for a partial knee replacement?

Pain & RecoveryHow long is the full recovery from a partial knee replacement?

Risks & Long-termWhat are the disadvantages of a partial knee replacement?

Deciding & EligibilityWho is a candidate for partial knee replacement?

Life After SurgeryHow well can I bend my knee after a partial knee replacement?

Life After SurgeryHow much time off work should I plan for after knee surgery?

Deciding & EligibilityWhat is the most common type of partial knee replacement?

Life After SurgeryWhen can I drive again after a partial knee replacement?

Cost & InsuranceDoes medical aid cover partial knee replacement in South Africa?

Deciding & EligibilityShould I try physical therapy before a partial knee replacement?

Risks & Long-termWhat are the success rates for partial knee replacement?

Life After SurgeryWhat activities should I avoid after a partial knee replacement?

Life After SurgeryCan I play sport after a partial knee replacement?

Risks & Long-termHow long does a partial knee replacement last?

Pain & RecoveryIs physiotherapy essential after a partial knee replacement?

Pain & RecoveryWhat does recovery look like if I'm in my 40s or 50s?

Risks & Long-termIf a partial knee fails, can it be converted to a total knee replacement?

Cost & InsuranceWhat out-of-pocket cost should I expect with medical aid?

Deciding & EligibilityWhat is the actual difference between a partial and a total knee replacement?

Risks & Long-termDo patients regret having a partial knee replacement?

Pain & RecoveryWhen can I walk after a partial knee replacement?

Pain & RecoveryHow painful is recovery from a partial knee replacement?

Preparation & MindsetWhat questions should I ask my surgeon before a knee replacement?

Deciding & EligibilityHow do I know when I'm ready for a partial knee replacement?

Deciding & EligibilityDoes partial knee replacement help with arthritis pain?

Risks & Long-termWhat do real patients say about partial knee replacement?

Pain & RecoveryHow much swelling is normal after a partial knee replacement?

Deciding & EligibilityIf I'm young, should I have a partial or total knee replacement?

Risks & Long-termWhat happens if a partial knee replacement fails?

Deciding & EligibilityHow does partial knee replacement compare to injections, scopes and total replacement?

Cost & InsuranceCan the Compensation Commissioner (COIDA) cover my partial knee replacement?

Preparation & MindsetWhat are the most common fears about knee replacement, and are they justified?

Preparation & MindsetHow do I mentally prepare for a knee replacement?

Life After SurgeryHow well do partial knee replacements work for active patients?

Deciding & EligibilityWhen does partial knee replacement beat injections and physiotherapy?

Pain & RecoveryWhat do the weeks after a partial knee replacement actually look like?

Pain & RecoveryWhat is the typical recovery timeline for a partial knee replacement?

Pain & RecoveryWhat are the best exercises after a partial knee replacement?

Preparation & MindsetHow do I choose the right surgeon for a knee replacement?

Preparation & MindsetShould I stay in hospital or have a same-day discharge for a partial knee replacement?

Preparation & MindsetWhat anaesthesia is used for a partial knee replacement?

Preparation & MindsetWhat happens on the day of a partial knee replacement?

Preparation & MindsetHow should I set up my home before a knee replacement?

Pain & RecoveryWhat medication will I be on after a knee replacement?

Preparation & MindsetHow do I deal with fear before a knee replacement?

Life After SurgeryHow much pain relief should I realistically expect after a knee replacement?

Life After SurgeryWhen can I resume normal daily activities after a partial knee replacement?

Life After SurgeryHow does partial knee replacement affect specific careers — nursing, trades, emergency services?

Cost & InsuranceCan I get a written cost breakdown and a payment plan for my surgery?

Preparation & MindsetHow do I compare the experience of different knee surgeons?

Life After SurgeryWhen can I fly internationally after a partial knee replacement?

Pain & RecoveryWhat is the best sleeping position after a partial knee replacement?

Risks & Long-termHow do you prevent blood clots after a knee replacement?

Risks & Long-termWhat are the long-term success rates of partial knee replacement implants?

Risks & Long-termHow long does a partial knee replacement last?

Still have questions? Request an Appointment

Still need a real answer for your knee?

Orthopaedic emergencies outside consulting hours