There are many factors which go into the choice of the best knee replacement implant which would suit you. Your surgeon will no doubt advise you regarding the best one for you. There are many brands on the market which all have their plus points. You ought to know what is available for you and also about the latest implants in the market. There have been some breakthroughs in knee replacement implant field and also some alternates to implants. Here is some information for you to go through before making the crucial decision regarding your implant:
What is Best Knee Replacement Implant For You?
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What does the best knee replacement implant entail?
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What materials are the artificial knee joints made from?
What does the best knee replacement implant entail?
Regardless of brand and technology advance, here are some qualities your implant should possess:
- It should be comfortable enough to carry out your normal activities and should not hamper motion
- The best knee replacement implant should last for at least 15 to 20 years
- A good implant should have good reviews from previous recipients
- It should meet your requirements, and be compatible with your conditions – such as nickel allergy
- Ideally, it should be of a style and brand which your surgeon is familiar with
Components of knee replacement implants
Your natural knee has three components/ compartments – the lateral (outer) compartment, the medial (inner) compartment, and patella-femoral (under the kneecap) compartment. In total knee replacement, all the three compartments have to be replaced. In partial knee replacement, only one compartment is changed.
The best knee replacement implant has four parts – tibial, femoral, patellar, and plastic spacer.
The plastic spacer is required in artificial knee implants to provide flexibility to your knee, which allows it to flex and bend.
What materials are the artificial knee joints made from?
Artificial knees are made of ceramic, metal, or strong plastic. Knee replacements – total and partial – usually have parts made from two or more materials. The materials are chosen for their durability and flexibility, and have to be biocompatible (i.e. they should not corrode, or be rejected by the body, or react with it).
Some common alloys used in artificial knee joints are:
Cobalt-Chromium
Chromium alloy is the most common alloy used in knee replacements, as it is tough, durable, and biocompatible. It is usually used for femoral replacements as it sees plenty of traction with plastic spacers. But it may leach nickel into the bloodstream, so you have to inform your surgeon before your replacement procedure if you have any nickel or another metal allergy.
Titanium cobalt and Titanium
Titanium and its alloy Titanium Cobalt are both used in best knee replacement implant. It has the same properties as Chromium, as well as being more elastic, which is favorable for the bone which surrounds the implant. As this is a softer metal, it is used to make the artificial tibial component.
Polyethylene
This strong plastic is used to make a plastic spacer and the patellar (kneecap). The plastic allows the metal parts to move smoothly.
Most recent advances in knee replacement implant
The latest technology in knee replacement surgery might make a huge change in the knee replacement surgery. An Israeli company called Cartiheal might revolutionize knee replacement breakthroughs and alternates. The company has developed an implant, which can regenerate bone and cartilage after being implanted in the body.
The device is called Agii-C and was developed using funds donated by many major pharmaceutical blue chip corporations. Agii-C is one of the latest technology in knee replacement surgery, which might be very useful to aged and aging people to continue living a healthy and active lifestyle. Even younger people who live a sedentary lifestyle and as a result, suffer from knee joint problems, will be benefited by Agii-C. As of now, the device has been successfully implanted on 200 patients in Europe. It has shown its capacity to heal/regenerate the hyaline cartilage. This makes it a desirable therapy for a varied pathology range.
3D solution for knee replacement
Some surgeons have started using 3D solutions to replace knees. Total 3D knee replacement is possible based on the patient’s anatomy. An implant is designed and printed exclusively to tailor to the patient’s needs. The 3D implants are beneficial to the patient as there are reduced chances of contamination and blood loss during surgery.
Another development in knee replacement breakthroughs and alternates is the RecoveryRx device, which has been shown to manage pain and improve pain management in patients.
Knee replacement is a complex procedure and you have to make an informed decision as to which implant or device will be beneficial to you. You can try the latest advances in technology which might help you to live an active life and reduce your pain too.
