Dr. Caillouette Orthopedics

The total knee prosthesis is composed of high-grade plastics and metal alloys. The implant is designed so that the metal surface articulates against the plastic, resulting in smooth movement and minimal wear. The lower end of your thighbone, the top surface of your shinbone, and the back surface of your kneecap may be replaced during this procedure. Surface replacement will be unique to your condition.

	Step 1. The damaged portions of the femur bone and cartilage are cut away. The end of the femur bone is reshaped to allow a metal femoral component to fit into place.
	Step 2. The metal component is attached to the end of the femur using bone cement.
	Step 3. The damaged area of the tibia bone and cartilage are cut away. The tibia end is reshaped to receive the metal tibia component.
	Step 4. The metal part for the tibia is secured to the end of the tibia using bone cement.
	Step 5. A polyethylene insert is attached to the metal tibial component. The insert will support the body's weight and allow the femur to move over the tibia, just like the tibia's original cartilage used to do.
	Step 6. The tibia, with its new polyethylene surface, and the femur, with its new metal part, are put together to form a new knee joint.
	Step 7. To make sure the patella, or kneecap, glides smoothly over the new artificial knee, its rear surface is prepared to receive a polyethylene plastic component, which is also cemented into place.
	Step 8. The new parts of the knee joint are tested by flexing and extending the knee. Watch an animation of this procedure

After surgery, you will be moved to the recovery room where you will remain for one to two hours while the recovery from anesthesia is monitored. After you awaken fully, you will be taken to your hospital room.

Download our comprehensive brochure about Total Knee Replacement to refer to offline here.

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