Q. What are the different types of knee implants available?
Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.
There are various types of knee implants, and the choice of implant depends on factors such as the patient's anatomy, the surgeon's preference, and the specific needs of the individual undergoing knee replacement surgery. The main types of knee implants include:
1. Fixed-Bearing Implants:
- Cruciate-Retaining (CR): These implants retain the patient's anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), which helps stabilize the knee joint.
- Cruciate-Sacrificing (CS): In this type, the surgeon removes the ACL during the procedure.
2. Mobile-Bearing Implants:
- These implants have a moving plastic insert between the metal components, allowing for some degree of rotation. They are designed to mimic the natural movement of the knee more closely.
3. Unicompartmental (Partial) Knee Implants:
- Used when only one part of the knee joint is affected by arthritis. This implant replaces either the medial (inner) or lateral (outer) compartment of the knee.
4. Bicompartmental Knee Implants:
- These implants replace two of the three knee compartments, typically the medial and patellofemoral compartments.
5. Gender-Specific Implants:
- Some manufacturers offer implants designed with gender-specific considerations, accounting for anatomical differences between male and female knees.
6. Cemented and Uncemented Implants:
- Cemented: The components are secured to the bone with bone cement.
- Uncemented: The components rely on the bone to grow into the implant for stability.
7. Posterior-Stabilized (PS) Implants:
- These implants replace the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) and are designed to provide stability during knee movement.
8. High-Flexion Implants:
- Designed to allow for increased flexion (bending) of the knee, which may be beneficial for individuals who need to squat or kneel frequently.
9. Custom or Patient-Specific Implants:
- Some companies offer customized implants based on the patient's unique anatomy, using advanced imaging technology to create a personalized fit.
10. Metal-On-Metal (MoM) Implants:
- These implants have both the femoral and tibial components made of metal. However, the use of MoM implants has declined due to concerns about metal ion release and associated complications.
The choice of a specific knee implant is made by the orthopedic surgeon based on the patient's individual needs and the surgeon's expertise. Patients should discuss the options with their surgeon to understand the rationale behind the chosen implant and any potential benefits or risks associated with it.
Related Questions
-
How to lose weight naturally? | Secondmedic
-
Can body itching be normal? | Secondmedic
-
What are the leading causes of arrhythmia in individuals? | Secondmedic
-
How long does it take for ascites to develop? | Secondmedic
-
What are some of the things a doctor might be looking for in an LFT blood test? | Secondmedic
-
What is the purpose of a liver function test (LFT)? | Secondmedic