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Total and Partial Knee Replacement in Dubai | Dr. Usama Saleh

Expert TKR and Unicompartmental Knee Arthroplasty for Severe Knee Arthritis in Dubai | Fellowship-Trained Knee Replacement Surgeon at Medcare MOSH

Chronic knee pain that stops you sleeping. Stairs you now dread. A walk to the car that takes twice as long as it used to. When knee arthritis reaches the stage where cartilage is gone and bone meets bone, knee replacement surgery is the intervention that transforms quality of life. More than 90% of patients report significant improvement in pain and function. Implants now routinely last 20 or more years.

Total knee replacement (TKR) and partial knee replacement (unicompartmental knee arthroplasty, UKA) represent two different surgical approaches to the same underlying problem, and the choice between them depends on your specific anatomy, disease distribution, and activity goals. Dr. Usama Saleh, a fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon with 23 years of experience, performs TKR and UKA at Medcare Orthopaedics and Spine Hospital (MOSH), Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai.

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Meet Dr. Usama Hassan Saleh

Dr. Usama Hassan Saleh is a fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon with 23 years of experience in total and partial knee replacement surgery in Dubai and the UAE. His practice includes TKR, UKA, revision knee replacement, and complex joint arthroplasty at Medcare Orthopaedics and Spine Hospital.

Dr. Usama Hassan Saleh orthopedic surgeon
Orthopedic Surgeon | Dubai

MD, PhD, MRCS (UK)

Egyptian Board Certified and Arab Board Certified, with advanced fellowship training in Orthopedic Surgery at the University of Toronto, Canada.

Experience

23 Years in Orthopedic Surgery

Extensive experience managing primary Dubai and the UAE.

Fellowship

University of Toronto, Canada

Advanced international fellowship training in orthopedic surgery and joint reconstruction.

Clinical Expertise

Total and partial knee replacement, revision surgery, and complex joint arthroplasty.

TKR

Total Knee Replacement

Comprehensive resurfacing for advanced multi-compartment knee arthritis .

UKA

Partial Knee Replacement

Bone-preserving unicompartmental arthroplasty for carefully .

Orthopedic surgery and knee replacement care in Dubai
Hospital

Medcare MOSH Dubai

Consultation and surgery at Medcare Orthopaedics and Spine Hospital on Sheikh Zayed Road.

Complex Cases

Revision Knee Replacement

Specialist assessment for painful, loose, worn, infected, or unstable previous knee implants.

Orthopedic surgical center and clinical care
Board Certification

Multi-Board Certified

Egyptian Board Certified and Arab Board Certified, supported by MD, PhD, and MRCS credentials.

Patient consultation with orthopedic surgeon
Patient Focus

Personalized Surgical Planning

Every recommendation considers pain severity, X-ray and MRI findings, ligament function, deformity, health status, and recovery expectations.

✓

Expert knee replacement care with clear, evidence-based decision making

Dr. Usama explains whether total knee replacement, partial knee replacement, or continued non-surgical treatment is the most appropriate option for your specific knee.

What Is Knee Replacement Surgery?

What Is Knee Replacement Surgery?

Knee replacement surgery, also called knee arthroplasty, is a procedure in which the damaged surfaces of the knee joint are resurfaced with artificial implant components made of metal alloy, high-density polyethylene plastic, and in some cases ceramic.

3 Knee
Compartments
The complete knee structure is not removed The ligaments, muscles, and tendons remain intact. Only the worn cartilage surfaces on the femur, tibia, and when required the patella are resurfaced.
Total and partial knee replacement implant components
Joint Resurfacing

A smooth, low-friction artificial surface replaces damaged cartilage

The new implant surfaces remove painful bone-on-bone contact while preserving the surrounding muscles, tendons, and supporting soft tissues.

Two Main Types of Knee Replacement Surgery

Total knee replacement and partial knee replacement address the same underlying problem using different levels of joint resurfacing.

images

Total Knee Replacement

Total knee replacement, also called total knee arthroplasty, resurfaces all three compartments of the knee.

Medial
Inner knee compartment The worn inner joint surface is resurfaced when arthritis affects the medial side of the knee.
Lateral
Outer knee compartment The outer joint surface is included when degeneration affects the lateral compartment.
Patellofemoral
Front knee compartment The articulation between the kneecap and femur is addressed when the front compartment is affected.
Best For
Multi-compartment arthritis TKR is most commonly recommended when arthritis affects more than one knee compartment.
images (1)

Partial Knee Replacement

Partial knee replacement, also called unicompartmental knee arthroplasty, resurfaces only one affected compartment.

One Area
Single-compartment resurfacing Only the damaged section of the knee is replaced, most commonly the medial compartment.
Preserves
Healthy bone and cartilage The unaffected knee compartments remain untouched and continue functioning naturally.
Ligaments
Cruciate ligaments must remain intact UKA is suitable only for carefully selected patients with stable ACL and PCL function.
Benefit
More natural knee mechanics Preserving healthy structures can provide faster recovery and a more natural feeling knee in ideal candidates.
images (2)
Implant Materials

Modern implants combine strength, smooth movement, and long-term wear resistance

Knee replacement components are commonly manufactured from durable metal alloys and high-density polyethylene. Ceramic components may also be used in selected cases. Together, these materials create a stable, low-friction surface designed to restore movement and reduce pain.

Modern knee replacement implants are engineered for longevity

Total knee replacement implants have an expected functional lifespan of 15 to 25 years in appropriately selected patients who follow post-operative activity guidelines. Partial knee replacement implants offer similar longevity in ideal candidates, while preserving more natural bone stock if future revision surgery is ever required.

Total vs Partial Knee Replacement

Which Knee Replacement Is Right for You?

The choice between total knee replacement and partial knee replacement depends on which compartments of the knee are affected, whether the cruciate ligaments are intact, and your activity goals. Dr. Usama uses weight-bearing X-rays, MRI, and a detailed clinical examination to guide the decision.

Partial knee replacement surgery planning
Knee replacement consultation with Dr Usama Saleh
Decision Based on Anatomy Total replacement treats multi-compartment arthritis. Partial replacement preserves healthy compartments when disease is isolated.
01

Disease Distribution

TKR is used when arthritis affects several compartments. UKA is considered when damage is confined to one compartment.

02

Ligament Integrity

Partial knee replacement requires intact ACL and PCL function. Total replacement can be suitable when ligament laxity is present.

03

Recovery and Activity Goals

UKA usually allows faster recovery and a more natural knee feel, while TKR provides broader treatment for advanced arthritis.

How the Two Procedures Compare

The important differences are not only the implant size, but also candidacy, recovery, expected motion, implant survival, and revision planning.

Total knee replacement procedure
Total Knee Replacement

All 3 Compartments Replaced

Best for severe multi-compartment osteoarthritis, larger deformity, inflammatory arthritis, and widespread joint damage.

Partial knee replacement assessment
Partial Knee Replacement

Only 1 Compartment Replaced

Best for isolated medial, lateral, or patellofemoral arthritis with intact cruciate and collateral ligaments.

Knee replacement recovery and physiotherapy
Recovery Profile

UKA Usually Recovers Faster

TKR full activity often takes 6 to 12 months. UKA commonly reaches full activity in 3 to 6 months.

TOTAL AND PARTIAL KNEE REPLACEMENT
Long-Term Planning

Implant Survival and Revision

TKR survival at 15 years is about 85 to 90%. UKA is about 80 to 85% and preserves more bone for future revision.

01
Compartments Replaced

TKR: all 3 compartments. UKA: 1 affected compartment only.

02
Candidacy

TKR: multi-compartment OA. UKA: isolated OA with intact ACL and PCL, BMI below 35 preferred.

03
Incision Size

TKR: 20 to 25 cm. UKA: 8 to 12 cm through a more limited approach.

04
Hospital Stay

TKR: usually 2 to 5 days. UKA: usually 1 to 3 days.

05
Walking

TKR: day 1 to 2 with a frame. UKA: often day 1 with crutches.

06
Range of Motion

TKR: very good. UKA: often excellent with a more natural knee feel.

07
Return to Full Activity

TKR: 6 to 12 months. UKA: 3 to 6 months.

08
Revision Complexity

TKR: moderate. UKA: often lower because more natural bone stock is preserved.

09
Best Fit

TKR: severe multi-compartment arthritis. UKA: single-compartment disease with intact ligaments.

Candidacy and Timing

Who Needs Knee Replacement Surgery?

Knee replacement is not the first line of treatment. Physiotherapy, exercise, weight management, injections, activity modification, and bracing are normally tried before surgery is discussed.

Surgery is considered when conservative care has genuinely failed. This usually means at least 6 months of structured non-surgical treatment without enough pain relief or functional improvement.

Good Candidates for TKR

  • Severe OA affecting multiple compartments with bone-on-bone contact.
  • Constant pain limiting walking, stairs, daily activity, or sleep.
  • Failed physiotherapy, injections, and activity modification over 6 months.
  • Flexion deformity or valgus and varus deformity beyond 15 degrees.
  • Inflammatory arthritis affecting the whole joint.

Good Candidates for UKA

  • OA or osteonecrosis confined to one compartment.
  • Intact ACL confirmed on MRI.
  • Intact collateral ligaments and BMI below 35 preferred.
  • Flexion above 90 degrees and fixed flexion deformity below 10 degrees.
  • Preference for faster recovery and a more natural knee feel.

Knee Replacement Is Not Appropriate For

  • Active infection in or around the knee.
  • Significant peripheral vascular disease with impaired wound healing.
  • Morbid obesity with BMI above 40 until risk is reduced.
  • Poorly controlled inflammatory arthritis.
  • Expectation of competitive running, jumping, or contact sport after surgery.
01

8 to 12 Weeks Before

Begin prehabilitation with quadriceps and hip abductor strengthening. Treat dental infection. Complete cardiac assessment when indicated. Work on weight management because every kilogram lost reduces knee load by 3 to 4 kilograms.

02

2 to 4 Weeks Before

Stop blood-thinning medication only under the agreed bridging protocol. Stop NSAIDs 7 to 10 days before. Stop smoking for a minimum of 8 weeks because smoking significantly increases infection and healing risk.

03

Home Preparation

Arrange a raised toilet seat, bathroom grab rails, ground-floor sleeping for 4 to 6 weeks, removal of non-slip hazards, waist-height storage, and at least 6 weeks of family or carer support.

04

Day Before Surgery

Do not eat or drink from midnight. Shower with chlorhexidine antiseptic wash in the evening and again on the morning of surgery. Remove jewelry and confirm transport and home support.

05

Day of Surgery

Arrive at Medcare MOSH 2 hours before the scheduled time. Bring photo ID, insurance card, and medication list. The expected total stay for preparation, surgery, and recovery is 6 to 8 hours.

Inside the Operating Theatre

How Knee Replacement Surgery Is Performed Step by Step

Total surgical duration is normally 90 to 120 minutes for TKR and 60 to 90 minutes for UKA. Every stage is checked for alignment, stability, implant fit, and safe range of motion.
Step 0120 to 30 minutes

Anesthesia

Spinal anesthesia is standard and is combined with sedation. A femoral or adductor canal nerve block provides 18 to 24 hours of pain control. General anesthesia is used when spinal anesthesia is contraindicated.

Step 025 minutes

Positioning and Tourniquet

The patient lies on the back with the knee flexed over a positioning device. A pneumatic thigh tourniquet creates a clear operative field for precise bone preparation and cement fixation.

Step 0310 minutes

Surgical Approach and Exposure

A midline incision of 20 to 25 cm is made. The medial parapatellar approach exposes the joint. The patella is retracted, and remaining menisci and the ACL are removed during total knee replacement.

Step 0420 to 30 minutes

Bone Resection and Sizing

The damaged femoral and tibial surfaces are removed with alignment guides and cutting jigs. Patellar resurfacing may be performed. Trial components confirm fit, alignment, stability, and motion.

Step 0520 minutes

Implant Fixation

The femoral component, tibial baseplate, polyethylene insert, and optional patellar component are fixed with bone cement. The knee is moved through its full range to confirm positioning and stability.

Step 0620 to 30 minutes

Closure and Dressing

The tourniquet is released, bleeding is controlled, and the wound is closed in layers. A drain may be placed. A sterile dressing and compressive bandage are applied.

How UKA differs

The same anesthetic approach is used, but the incision is 8 to 12 cm. Only the affected compartment is exposed and resurfaced. The opposite compartment and cruciate ligaments are preserved. The procedure is normally completed in 60 to 90 minutes.

Real People. Real Transformations.

erhan

I had Achilles tendon surgery earlier this year, and I couldn’t be more grateful for the care I received from Dr. Usama Hassan Saleh and his team. From the first consultation to the post-surgery follow-ups, everything was handled with professionalism, skill, and genuine compassion. The recovery process was smooth thanks to the clear guidance and support provided. I’m now fully recovered and almost back to my regular activities—truly thankful for the excellent care!

Haitham Kamal

Dr. Usama is a great asset to the hospital, i was lucky enough that he did my operation and the amount of care and experience he has is priceless . A big thank as well to nurse Merin for her care, smile and professionalism. I am glads to be a patient for dr. Usama clinic 🙂

Khaled El-Naggar

Local Guide

I have been using Dr. Usama medical advisory and treatment for over 3 years now for various skeletal and tendon issues I have had and every time I visit I am always being provided with top notch medical guidance, and treatment plans that has been proven most useful and reliable. On the other hand, his patient management and personal involvement are always great to have and very assuring.

Bushra Khan

I had my meniscus repair surgery with Dr Usama. Alhumdulillah from the get go he was honest and geniune about the whole process and recovery. Today I'm able to walk long distances and lift again with no pain. Hoping to run again soon inshallah.

Talal Mohammed

Dr Usama Saleh is so professional and amazing everything with him went smoothly from before the surgery he prepared me mentally and after the surgery too, I highly recommend him to anybody having ACL or ligament or a shoulder problem now I’m 3 weeks after the surgery and my recovery process is faster because of the way he sitting my mind Thank you dr Usama and Medcare for the special treatment

Abdalmegid Ibrahem

Dr. Usama is amazing! He fixed my shoulder after spotting an MRI issue others missed, adjusting my physio for great results. He also performed flawless meniscus surgery on my knee, and his post-op care ensured a smooth recovery. When a minor issue arose later, he resolved it instantly. Grateful for his expertise and dedication—highly recommend!

Ahmad Ali

Thank you Dr. Osama Hassan for your care and attention. Happy Eid.

Laila Hamad

Ma Shaa Allah Expert doctor with humanity manner Appreciate his work

Amal Basaeed

Best doctor I've ever seen, highly recommend. He is very honest which is hard to find nowadays.

her positivity is simply infectious shot of well dressed woman looking at the camera e1683099593730
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Transparent Surgical Guidance

Risks and Expected Outcomes of Knee Replacement Surgery

Knee replacement is one of the most studied and successful elective operations. This section gives an honest overview of published risks and realistic expected outcomes.
85 to 95%

Good or excellent satisfaction at 1 year for TKR.

More than 90%

Significant or complete relief of preoperative knee pain.

6 to 8 weeks

Typical return to unrestricted walking.

6 to 12 months

Return to cycling, swimming, golf, or doubles tennis.

85 to 90%

TKR implant survival at 15 years.

80 to 85%

UKA implant survival at 15 years.

High-impact sport is not recommended after knee replacement. Dr. Usama discusses risk and outcome data during the preoperative consultation. The choice to proceed is shared and is based on diagnosis, functional impairment, personal risk, and realistic goals.
Rehabilitation Roadmap

Recovery After Knee Replacement: What to Expect

Recovery is progressive. Good outcomes depend on early movement, full rehabilitation, DVT prevention, wound monitoring, and realistic activity limits.
Phase 1

Days 1 to 3

Physiotherapy begins on day 1. Walking with a frame is standard by days 1 to 2. Pain control combines nerve block, paracetamol, NSAIDs, and short-course opioids when needed. Compression stockings and heparin begin immediately. Discharge is normally days 2 to 5 for TKR and days 1 to 3 for UKA.

Phase 2

Weeks 1 to 6

Home physiotherapy focuses on quadriceps strength, range of motion, straight leg raises, and progressive walking. Crutches are usually used for 4 to 6 weeks. Driving typically resumes at 6 to 8 weeks after right-leg surgery or 4 to 6 weeks after left-leg surgery in an automatic vehicle. Desk work often resumes at 4 to 6 weeks.

Phase 3

Months 2 to 6

Outpatient physiotherapy progresses strength, balance, stair confidence, and activity return. Swimming and cycling often resume at 2 to 3 months. Golf and other low-impact sport often resume at 4 to 6 months.

Full Recovery

Months 6 to 12

Most patients report their best functional result between 6 and 12 months as the knee adapts and the surrounding muscles rebuild fully.

Top 5 Mistakes After Knee Replacement and How to Avoid Them

01

Stopping physiotherapy too early

The implant restores the joint surface, but the muscles need 6 to 12 months of structured rehabilitation. Stopping at 6 to 8 weeks can leave persistent weakness, stiffness, and fall risk.

02

Not moving enough in the first week

Fear of pain can lead to complete rest. Early mobilization is one of the most important ways to reduce postoperative stiffness, which is why physiotherapy starts immediately.

03

Missing DVT prevention doses

Heparin injections and compression stockings are prescribed for 4 to 6 weeks to reduce a preventable and potentially life-threatening complication.

04

Returning to impact activity too soon

Running, jumping, and contact sport accelerate implant wear and increase loosening risk. Progression must follow patient-specific clearance.

05

Ignoring early infection signs

Increasing redness, warmth, swelling, wound discharge, or new fever requires immediate medical review. Early recognition makes infection more manageable.

Why Choose Dr. Usama

Why Choose Dr. Usama Saleh for Knee Replacement Surgery in Dubai?

Fellowship-trained joint replacement expertise, personalised total versus partial knee replacement planning, conservative-first decision making, and full-spectrum care at Medcare MOSH Dubai.

Dr. Usama Saleh knee replacement surgeon in Dubai
Dr. Usama Saleh joint replacement specialist at Medcare MOSH Dubai

Fellowship-Trained Joint Replacement Expertise

Advanced fellowship training at the University of Toronto provided subspecialty exposure to total and partial knee replacement, complex revision arthroplasty, and computer-assisted implant alignment techniques. This level of training exceeds the standard orthopedic residency curriculum and is reflected in surgical precision and implant positioning accuracy.

Conservative-First: Replacement Only When Indicated

Knee replacement is a major elective surgery with real risks and a long recovery commitment. Dr. Usama ensures every patient has genuinely exhausted physiotherapy, injection therapy, and activity modification before surgical discussion begins. The patients who proceed to replacement are those who will benefit most.

Personalised TKR vs UKA Decision-Making

The decision between total and partial knee replacement requires precise assessment of compartmental disease, ligament integrity, bone quality, body weight, activity goals, and patient preference. Dr. Usama reviews your imaging in detail and explains both options honestly before any decision is made.

Full-Spectrum Knee Replacement Care at Medcare MOSH

From pre-operative MRI review, prehabilitation physiotherapy, and insurance pre-authorization through knee replacement surgery and post-operative rehabilitation coordination, every stage is managed at Medcare Orthopaedics and Spine Hospital, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai.

23 Years of Knee Arthroplasty Experience in Dubai

Two decades of total and partial knee replacement surgery covering primary TKR and UKA, revision knee replacement, bilateral staged procedures, and knee replacement in patients with inflammatory arthritis. This depth of experience helps uncommon intraoperative findings be recognised and managed effectively.

Transparent Recovery Expectations

Understanding the top five mistakes after knee replacement is part of every pre-operative consultation with Dr. Usama. Patients who enter surgery with realistic expectations, a structured prehabilitation program, and a clear post-operative rehabilitation plan consistently achieve better outcomes.

Knee replacement surgical planning and orthopedic care in Dubai
Gallery
★ University of Toronto Fellow
★ Total and Partial Knee Replacement
★ 23 Years of Arthroplasty Experience
★ Medcare MOSH Integrated Care

Knee Replacement Surgery in Dubai: Serving Patients Across the UAE

Dubai's internationally diverse, aging-active population creates significant demand for knee replacement surgery. Expatriate professionals in their 50s and 60s who have remained active through decades of tennis, running, cycling, football, and padel frequently reach the point where osteoarthritis damage is too advanced for non-surgical management.

Dubai residents value fast access to specialist-level care and internationally trained surgeons with verifiable credentials. Dr. Usama Saleh at Medcare Orthopaedics and Spine Hospital delivers both, combining advanced knee arthroplasty expertise with clear, patient-specific guidance.

Dr. Usama sees knee replacement candidates from across Dubai, including Jumeirah, Dubai Marina, JBR, Downtown, Business Bay, Al Barsha, Motor City, Arabian Ranches, and DIFC. Patients also travel from Abu Dhabi, Fujairah, and across the UAE and GCC.

Whether you are searching for knee replacement near you in Dubai, a total knee replacement surgeon, a partial knee replacement specialist, or expert guidance on total versus partial knee replacement in the UAE, Dr. Usama's team at Medcare MOSH can confirm same-week or urgent appointment availability for patients seeking knee arthroplasty care.

Clinic Medcare Orthopaedics and Spine Hospital
MOSH
Address Sheikh Zayed Road
Dubai, UAE
Phone (04) 4079 100 WhatsApp +971 56 785 3864 Email info@usamasaleh.com Website www.usamasaleh.com
Medcare MOSH knee replacement clinic in Dubai
Medcare Orthopaedics and Spine Hospital Dubai
Knee replacement consultation at Medcare MOSH Dubai
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Knee treatment hub in Dubai
01

Knee Osteoarthritis and Degeneration

Detailed osteoarthritis management before knee replacement surgery is considered.

02

Arthroscopic Knee Surgery

A less invasive surgical option for selected patients who do not yet require total or partial knee replacement.

03

Knee Injections

Non-surgical injection options for managing osteoarthritis pain and improving knee function.

04

Sports Physical Therapy

Structured prehabilitation before surgery and post-operative rehabilitation following knee replacement.

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