During knee replacement surgery, your orthopedic surgeon will resurface the components of your knee joint and remove any damaged parts. Your knee is then restored using metal, plastic, and ceramic implants also known as prosthesis. However, you might be thinking about how stable and durable your knee implant will be?
In order to ensure stability, your surgeon will either use a cemented or cementless technique to secure the implant. Rest assured, knee implants are designed to mimic the natural movement of your knee joint, maximizing their stability and resemblance to your knee.
Fixation of Knee Implants
Traditionally, implants were held in place using bone cement but with advances in technology, your implants can be secured without cement. During your consultation, your surgeon will discuss both options and which is right for your condition, lifestyle, and needs.
- Cement Fixation – As the name sounds, your knee implants are fixed using a cement-like, strong, and fast-curing material, also called bone cement. It is made up of polymethylmethacrylate. According to some studies cemented fixation has longer-survival rates often lasting 10-20 years and is ideal for patients with poor bone quality and are less likely to regrow bone sufficiently enough to secure the implant. It is also a good option for older patients, those with excess weight, or who are less active.
- Cementless Fixation (Press-Fit) – This option does not use cement to secure the implants. Instead, a rough and porous coating is placed on the implant and encourages your natural bone to grow into the surface of implants. It may be secured using screws or pegs until the bone growth is secure enough. The benefits of treatment include a better long-term bond between the implant and bone and the elimination of worrying about potential breakdown of cement. However, it does require healthy bone quality and time for the bone to grow into the implant.
- Hybrid Fixation – In this method, your surgeon will incorporate both cemented and cementless fixation to secure your knee joint implants.
Dr. Dewan and his team understand that knee implants can be an excellent treatment option for those seeking long-term management of knee-joint complications including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and sports-related injuries.
During your consultation, we will discuss the advantages of various implant fixation techniques along with the implant designs to determine the best treatment plan for your needs. Having secure, stable, sustainable knee implants that stay in place will help you conquer the complications associated with your knee joint and cherish every step of your life. For more information on knee replacement surgery or to schedule a consultation, contact Ashvin K. Dewan, MD today.