What Are Knee Replacements Made Of?

To do a knee replacement, an orthopedic surgeon removes the damaged cartilage and bones that make up your knee joint and replaces them with plastic and metal components.

Identification

• The knee joint includes three components: the top of the tibia (one of your shin bones), the bottom of the femur (thigh bone) and your patella (kneecap).

Types

• A total knee replacement involves replacement of all three components, while a unicompartmental knee replacement includes only some of the components, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.

Features

• There are many materials and designs used to create knee replacements, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. The femoral component is made of a strong, highly-polished metal, and your kneecap will be replaced by a durable plastic piece. The tibial component of your knee replacement is also a durable plastic and it may be held in place by a metal tray.

Functions

• Your new knee components should produce a joint that functions just like your own knee did before bone damage caused pain and disability.

Warning

• Although your new knee joint is made from durable components, your doctor will still recommend that you protect those components by avoiding high-impact sports and jogging for the rest of your life.