What is knee replacement surgery?

During knee replacement surgery, a surgeon cuts away damaged bone and cartilage from your thighbone, shinbone and kneecap and replaces it with an artificial joint (prosthesis) made of metal alloys, high-grade plastics and polymers. You and your doctor can choose from a wide variety of designs that take into account your age, weight, activity level and overall health. Most knee replacement joints attempt to replicate your knee's natural ability to roll and glide as it bends.

View video of knee replacement surgery and other Additional Cost Tier Procedures

Resources

Please visit these resources for more information:

Knee Replacement. 2010. National Institutes of Health

Knee Replacement. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research (MFMER). 1998-2010.

Arthritis: Knee Replacement Surgery. WebMD.  Reviewed by Brunilda Nazario, MD on August 01, 2008. Edited by Marc C. Levesque, MD, PhD on February 01, 2007. 'Portions of this page © The Cleveland Clinic 2000-2005.

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