Knee Replacement Surgery

At MU Health Care, knee replacement surgery is a personalized experience — powered by teamwork, innovation and experts who specialize in knee care.

Knee replacement surgery replaces worn or damaged parts of the knee with artificial components to relieve pain and restore movement. It’s often recommended when arthritis or injury makes walking, climbing stairs or daily tasks difficult.

At MU Health Care, we perform a high volume of both total and partial knee replacements. Our team includes orthopaedic surgeons, physical therapists, sports injury specialists, nutritionists and more — all working together to support your recovery. Whether you’re just starting to explore surgery or seeking a second opinion, we can help you take the next step with confidence.

Types of Knee Replacement Surgery at MU Health Care

Your care team will help you decide which approach to knee replacement is best for your needs, goals and anatomy.

Total Knee Replacement

This procedure replaces all three compartments of the knee joint — the patellar component (kneecap), femoral component (part of the thigh bone) and tibial component (part of the shin bone). It’s most often used when arthritis has damaged the entire knee. Our surgeons use minimally invasive techniques when possible and advanced technology (including robotics) to maximize precision.

Partial Knee Replacement

Partial knee replacement surgery replaces only one part of the knee. Patients may qualify for this procedure if damage is limited to a single compartment. Partial replacements offer a shorter recovery time and often feel more like a natural knee.

Benefits of Knee Replacement Surgery

Knee replacement surgery can relieve chronic pain and improve your ability to move comfortably. When performed at MU Health Care, you can also benefit from:

Smaller incisions and less soft tissue damage: Our minimally invasive techniques mean shorter hospital stays and faster recovery.
More natural movement: Partial knee replacements often feel more like your own joint, with a quicker return to activity.
Custom implants that fit your anatomy: 3D-printed guides and virtual imaging software allow us to create precise surgical plans tailored to your body.
Robotic surgery: Robotics helps execute the most accurate and precise surgical techniques.
Lasting results: Patients often report 10+ years of joint function.

What to Expect With Knee Replacement Surgery

Before knee replacement surgery, you’ll attend a preop appointment to review medications, complete any necessary testing and discuss care planning. You may also participate in our Joint Health Program to build strength and improve your recovery outlook.

On surgery day:

You’ll arrive early and meet with your surgeon and anesthesia team.
The procedure typically lasts 1-2 hours.
You may stay one night in the hospital or go home the same day.

After surgery:

Physical therapy begins right away, including walking and range-of-motion exercises.
Outpatient rehab usually starts within a few days after knee replacement surgery.
Your care team will stay in touch to monitor your recovery and support your healing.

Recovery timelines vary. You may be able to return to low-impact activity in 6-12 weeks. Your care team will let you know what to expect based on your age, activity level and goals.