 What is a total knee replacement?
The bones in your knee joint are covered with a tough, lubricating tissue called cartilage. As cartilage wears away, bone begins to rub against bone, causing irritation, swelling, stiffness and discomfort associated with arthritis.
In total knee replacement surgery, an incision is made that allows the orthopaedic surgeon to access the damaged cartilage and bone. These are then removed and replaced with artificial implants. A metal alloy is used for the end of the thigh bone (femur). The shin bone (tibia) and knee cap (patella) implants are made of polyethylene, a special type of plastic. The implants create a smoothly functioning joint and prevent bone-on-bone contact.
Want to learn more about the surgery, hospital stay and recovery process?
Our free Knee Replacement brochure will answer many of your questions.
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