The body’s most strong and significant joint, the knee joint aids in movement and balances the body’s weight. You may require a replacement if you sustain any injuries or develop a persistent illness, such as osteoarthritis.
A new knee is surgically implanted in a procedure called a knee replacement. There are several ways to do this, but orthopedic surgeons base their decision of knee replacement on the patient’s medical history. Discover advanced hip and knee surgery in Karachi with our expert Dr Shohab Hyder Shaikh best orthopedic surgeon in Karachi for enhanced mobility and quality of life. Understand further on this blog about fundamental knowledge, medications, and different replacement methods.
An artificial knee joint: what is it?
An artificial joint is a structure that substitutes the natural knee joint. This is sometimes accomplished through a technique called a total knee replacement. Usually made of a combination of metal and plastic, its purpose is to replicate the same range of motion as a healthy knee.
The construction of the joint is usually simple. The thigh and shin bones are replaced with metal caps, and high-density plastic is used to replace any damaged cartilage. The femoral and tibial components are made of metal. The implant is often held in place using bone cement, also known as polymethyl methacrylate.
Knee Replacement Surgery
Surgery has been greatly improved by doctors since the first operation in 1968. Actually, precise and incredibly effective artificial knee implants that move almost exactly like a real knee and are specially matched to your unique body are a product of medical technological advancements. Today, one of the most successful and safest traditional orthopaedic procedures is a complete knee replacement.
Types Of Knee Replacement
- Metal-on-plastic
It is the most typical kind of implant. It consists of a polyethylene plastic spacer connected to the tibial component and a metal femoral component. This is the most affordable and secure kind of implant. Plastic wear, however, may trigger an immunological response that results in implant failure and bone deterioration. Plastic wear has been greatly decreased by manufacturing advances.
- Ceramics on Polymers
This implant is supported by a plastic spacer and has a ceramic femoral component in place of a metal one or a metal component coated in ceramic. People who are sensitive to nickel, which is frequently used in metal implants, are advised to get this kind of implant. It is important to remember that this implant’s plastic particles may trigger an immunological response.
- Ceramic with Ceramic
The material least likely to trigger an adverse response in the body is ceramic, which makes up the entirety of the femoral and tibial components. Nevertheless, ceramic joint implants might creak under foot pressure, and in rare cases, they can shatter under intense strain, necessitating the surgical removal of the fragments.
- Metal versus metal
Joint replacements with this kind of implant were formerly commonplace. But there’s a worry that metal residues might seep into the bloodstream and harm internal organs in addition to causing discomfort and inflammation. These days, they are only given serious consideration to young, athletic males. These implants are not permitted for women who are fertile because of the potential risks to the developing foetus.
Most Popular Knee Replacement Technique
One of the most common knee replacement techniques used by the general public is an implant consisting of a metal and plastic mix. With this method, the femoral and tibial components are made of a metal alloy (usually cobalt-chromium), while the cushion or spacer between them is made of a plastic polymer (usually polyethylene). Because of its outstanding biocompatibility, cobalt-chromium is the material of choice for implants since it helps to prevent corrosion and wear. Conversely, polyethylene is favoured due to its robustness and capacity to withstand weight-bearing stresses and joint motions.
When choosing the best implant design, surgeons consider a number of aspects, such as the anatomy, lifestyle, and activity levels of the patient. This enables them to alter the layout and guarantee that each patient’s unique demands are met. However, the design is what really sticks out. There isn’t a circumstance that fits all people. A masterpiece that is tailored to your exact specifications is your knee replacement. Surgeons customise the artificial joint to your unique anatomy, way of life, and preferences using state-of-the-art orthopaedic technologies.
Conclusion
Selecting the best knee replacement is an important choice that has to take a number of personal aspects into serious account. These variables include your lifestyle needs, your medical history, and any material allergies or sensitivities you may have. Right now, the metal-on-plastic combination knee replacement, made of polyethylene and cobalt-chromium, is the most often utilised kind.
This mixture is both extremely robust and biocompatible. Recent technical developments have made knee replacements considerably safer and more successful, giving patients increased mobility and a higher quality of life.
