The total knee replacements are surgical procedures designed to replace worn out surfaces of the knee. The knee is a hinge-like joint, with support from cartilage, ligaments and muscles. Sometimes arthritis damages the knee causing the cartilage to wear away and allowing bone to rub on bone. Your knee may become stiff and painful and walking may become difficult.
Cartilage covers the bones evenly allowing for smooth movement.
Protected by the kneecaps and held in place by muscles and ligaments, the joint bends freely. In a diseased knee, the surface of the bones may become rough causing pain when they rub together. The cartilage may wear away, becoming rough and no longer allowing easy movements of the joint bones. Because of arthritis, the joint may be swollen or inflamed resulting in pain and stiffness. Like your own knee, the prosthesis is made to fit together to form a smooth joint so you can walk easily and without pain.