Robert BurkeTotal vs. Partial Knee Replacement – Which Option Is Right for You?
If you’re living with chronic knee pain that limits your ability to walk, work, or enjoy life, you may be wondering whether it’s time to consider a knee replacement. But what’s the difference between a total and a partial knee replacement — and which one fits your needs?
At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, Dr. Robert L. Burke, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon serving Houston and Pearland since 1987, explains the key distinctions between these procedures, the role of robotic-assisted technology, and how to determine your best path toward lasting relief and restored mobility.
What Is a Total Knee Replacement (TKR)?
A total knee replacement replaces the entire surface of the knee joint — including the femur (thigh bone), tibia (shinbone), and patella (kneecap) — with durable orthopedic implants designed to restore function and alignment.
Ideal Candidates for TKR
You may be a good candidate if you have:
- Advanced osteoarthritis in multiple knee compartments
- Persistent pain that limits daily activity
- Poor response to conservative treatments like injections or therapy
- Knee deformity or instability
Benefits of Total Knee Replacement
- Long-lasting implants (often 15–20 years or more)
- Significant reduction in joint pain
- Improved movement, strength, and quality of life
Considerations
- Slightly more invasive than a partial replacement
- Recovery may take 10–12 weeks of guided physical therapy
💬 Dr. Burke shares:
“Most of my total knee patients walk the same day of surgery and begin therapy within 48 hours.”
💡 Learn More: Robotic-Assisted Total Knee Replacement ➜
What Is a Partial Knee Replacement (PKR)?
A partial knee replacement — also called a unicompartmental replacement — replaces only the damaged portion of the knee joint while preserving the remaining healthy bone and tissue.
The procedure typically targets:
- The medial (inner) compartment
- The lateral (outer) compartment
- Or the patellofemoral (kneecap) compartment
Ideal Candidates for PKR
You may qualify if you have:
- Localized cartilage wear limited to one area
- Stable knee ligaments
- No major deformity or rheumatoid arthritis
- Pain focused on one side of the knee
Benefits of Partial Knee Replacement
- Smaller incision and less bone removal
- Quicker recovery (usually 4–6 weeks)
- More natural knee movement post-surgery
Considerations
- Not suitable for patients with widespread arthritis or ligament damage
- May require total replacement later if arthritis progresses
💡 Explore Related Treatment: Cartilage Restoration & Regenerative Orthopedic Care ➜
Robotic-Assisted Knee Replacement – Precision Meets Innovation
At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, we utilize robotic-assisted technology for both total and partial knee replacements. This advanced approach provides exceptional accuracy in bone preparation and implant positioning.
Benefits of Robotic-Assisted Surgery
- Greater precision for long-lasting implant performance
- Minimally invasive surgical techniques
- Reduced pain and faster rehabilitation
- Ideal implant alignment to minimize wear and extend joint life
Think of it as GPS-guided surgery — a personalized, data-driven method tailored to your unique knee anatomy.
💡 Read More: Robotic Knee Surgery in Houston ➜
Recovery Timeline: What to Expect
While recovery varies, most patients can expect:
- Walking with assistance within 24 hours
- Outpatient physical therapy within the first week
- Gradual return to regular activities over 6–12 weeks
Tips for Faster Recovery
✅ Follow your prescribed therapy plan
✅ Maintain a protein-rich diet to support healing
✅ Limit stair use in early recovery
✅ Apply ice regularly to reduce swelling
✅ Take short, frequent walks to restore circulation
💡 Rehabilitation Support: Physical Therapy After Knee Surgery ➜
Take Our Quick Knee Replacement Candidacy Quiz
- Do you have knee pain even at rest or during sleep?
- Have you tried injections or therapy without relief?
- Do you struggle to stand or walk for more than 10 minutes?
- Are you in overall good health for outpatient surgery?
If you answered “yes” to two or more, it’s time to get evaluated by Dr. Burke Orthopedics.
💡 Start Here: Schedule a Knee Evaluation ➜
Why Houston & Pearland Trust Dr. Robert Burke
🩺 Over 35 years of orthopedic experience
⚙️ Robotic-assisted knee replacement specialist
🏥 Same-day appointments available in Houston & Pearland
⭐ 4.9/5 patient satisfaction rating
🦵 Thousands of successful knee replacement procedures
Dr. Burke and his orthopedic care team provide compassionate, evidence-based care to help you walk confidently, live pain-free, and return to the activities you love.
Schedule Your Knee Replacement Consultation Today
Don’t let chronic knee pain hold you back.
Whether you’re a candidate for total or partial knee replacement, Dr. Burke Orthopedics will guide you through every step — from diagnosis to recovery — with the highest level of precision and care.
📞 Call (713) 436-3488 or Request an Appointment Online ➜
Serving Houston, Pearland, Friendswood, and Southeast Texas.
Disclaimer
All references to regenerative or biologic therapies on this website are for educational purposes only.
Dr. Burke Orthopedics provides regenerative orthopedic care performed under FDA-cleared standards and does not advertise or sell biologic or prescription drug products.