Knee Replacement Basics


	Find out which knee replacement may be right for you

Did you know that one of the most effective ways to reduce severe knee pain and restore mobility is through knee replacement surgery?

More than 600,000 knee replacements are performed each year in the United States to replace worn and arthritic knee joints.¹

Depending on your condition, your doctor may recommend either a partial or total knee replacement. It's important to know that there are a number of differences in replacement knees, also commonly referred to as knee implants.

The Difference Between partial and Total Knee Replacement

Your knee is divided into three areas: medial and lateral (the sides of your knee) and patella (the knee cap). In partial knee replacement, your surgeon can replace just the damaged area of your knee. This enables you to keep more of your natural bone, tissue and ligaments when compared to a total knee replacement. And because it’s less invasive, you have the potential for a faster recovery than with a total knee replacement.

On the other hand, if two or more areas are damaged, a total knee replacement may be the answer.

The Importance of High Flexion Technology

Every time you kneel, squat or sit cross-legged, you are using a high knee flexion movement. You may also use high flexion while participating in many social, cultural, religious and leisure events that are important to you. Some knee implants are designed for deep knee flexion, allowing the implant to bend up to 155 degrees.

DePuy offers high flexion options for both total and partial knee implants.

View a knee flexing and bending during different activities

Important Safety Information

The performance of knee replacements depends on age, weight, activity level, and other factors. There are potential risks and recovery takes time. People with conditions limiting rehabilitation should not have this surgery. Only an orthopaedic surgeon can tell if knee replacement is right for you.

Talk to a doctor about your knee condition
Use our Surgeon Locator to find a surgeon near you who can discuss your options with Sigma^® Knee Replacement solutions.

Next: Types of Knee Replacements

Reference:
1. Thomson Healthcare