The knee is the largest joint in the body and is central to nearly every routine activity. The knee joint is formed by 3 bones: the lower end of the thigh bone (Femur), the upper end of the shin bone (tibia), and knee cap (patella). Thick, tough tissue brands called ligaments connect the bones and stabilize the joint. A smooth, shiny, plastic-like lining called cartilage covers the ends of the bones and prevents them from rubbing against each other, allowing for flexible and frictionless movement. Cartilage also serves as a shock absorber, cushioning the bones, from the forces between them. A soft tissue called synovium lines the joint and produces a lubricating fluid that reduces friction and wear.
One of the most common of knee pain and loss of mobility, is the wearing away of the cartilage lining. As a result, the bones rub together causing significant pain and swelling, a condition known as Osteoarthritis. Non-operative treatments such as steroidal and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, physical therapy, alternative ‘medicine’ and cortisone injections may effectively relieve pain and restore mobility However, increasingly severe pain and disability requires “Resurfacing Surgery”
In total knee Resurfacing Surgery, the parts of the bones that together are resurfaced with metal and plastic implants. Using special, precision instruments, your surgeon will typically remove the damaged surfaces of all three bones.
The surface of the femur (thigh bone) is replaced with a cobalt chromium component that comes very close to matching the curve of your natural bone. The surface of tibia (Shin bone) is replaced with a titanium component.
This flat metal component holds a smooth plastic piece made of ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene plastic that serves as the cartilage.
The undersurface of the kneecap may also be replaced with an implant made of the same polyethylene plastic.
Following insertion of the components, the wound is usually closed with absorbable sutures inside and a drain is inserted. Skin staples are taken.
The operation takes about 45 minutes to one hour for one knee resurfacing or approximately 2 hours for both knees done in one sitting.
You are unique and so is your individual anatomy and thus lack of accuracy leads to discomfort and even further corrective surgeries. That’s why custom fit knee replacement surgery, which utilizes MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) technology to create personalized positioning guides for total knee replacement is recommended.