Knee Joint ReplacementMedical Author:
Gary M Gaddis, MD, PhD, FACEP
Medical Editor:
Scott H Plantz, MD, FAAEM
Medical Editor:
Francisco Talavera, PharmD, PhD
Medical Editor:
Richard Harrigan, MD
Knee Joint Replacement OverviewThe procedure of knee joint replacement is called a total knee arthroplasty (TKA). This surgery involves replacing your knee joint with a manmade one. Doctors may replace your knee joint to end pain, stiffness, and loss of function. |
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Knee Joint Replacement
Knee Pain Introduction
Knee pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal complaint that brings people to their doctor. With today's increasingly active society, the number of knee problems is increasing. Knee pain has a wide variety of causes and treatments.
Anatomy of the Knee
The knee joint's main function is to bend and straighten for moving the body. The knee is more than just a simple hinge. It also twists and rotates. In order to perform all of these actions and to support the entire body while doing so, the knee relies on a number of structures, including bones, ligaments, tendons, and cartilage.
- Bones
- The knee joint involves three bones.
- The thighbone or femur comprises the top portion of the joint.
- One of the bones in the lower leg (calf area), the tibia, provides the bottom portion of the joint.
- The kneecap or patella rides along the front of the...
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Total Knee Arthroplasty »
Total knee replacement in some form has been practiced for over 50 years.
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