The History of Knee Replacements

Knee replacements are often necessary for those with worn knee joints. These replacements first came about during the mid-20th century, and have evolved into devices that can help people live with more freedom of walking, with little side effects.

Function

• According to the Anderson Orthopaedic Research Institute, knee replacements are beneficial to those who suffer from arthritis that wears down knee joints.

Hinged Implants

• Modern knee replacements first came about during the 1960s with hinged implants. These did not allow recipients to bend or rotate their knees, and they would often come apart soon after surgery; hinged implants had a high infection rate.

Condylar Knee Implants

• During the 1970s, condylar knee implants were created and created better knee rotation for the patient. However, they only came in two different sizes.

Unicondylar Knee Replacements

• Unicondylar, or partial, knee replacements have been made over, as of 2009. Now, this type of surgery involves fewer side effects and loss of blood, because a smaller incision of up to three inches is made.

Potential

• According to the Utah Hip and Knee Center, as of 2009, there is research being done on a type of knee replacement in which the bones actually grow into the device and hold it together. This would create fewer complications post-knee replacement surgery.