Damaged arthritic knee joint surfaces are replaced by bio-compatible metal components. In order to achieve minimal wear and appropriate stability of the new joint a polyethylene bearing is inserted between the metal parts. These bearings can be either fixed to the lower leg implant component or mobile.
There is either direct bone to implant contact (un-cemented implantation) or the implant is fixed to the rough bone surface by a thin cement layer.
Best possible alignment of the replacement components during surgery will contribute to improved knee function. Soft tissue re-balancing is an important part of knee replacement surgery because the artificial knee cannot rely on the support of normal cruciate ligaments and menisci. The actual surgical intervention is only the first step along a demanding recovery period in arthritis treatment. Please remember that the artificial knee can never be as perfect as the natural knee has been before the onset of the disease.
Watch video of navigated knee replacement operation.
Northern Hip & Groin Institute