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Glossary Term
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Knee Prosthesis

Definition

A Knee Prosthesis is an artificial device used to replace all or part of the knee joint during a surgical procedure called knee arthroplasty. It restores function, alleviates pain, and improves mobility for patients with severe joint damage due to conditions like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or injury.

Relevance to the MedTech Industry

Knee prostheses are critical for improving the quality of life for patients with debilitating joint conditions. For the MedTech industry, they represent a high-demand product segment requiring advanced materials, innovative designs, and precise manufacturing to meet diverse clinical needs.

Additional Information & Related Terms

Key Features of Knee Prostheses

  1. Femoral ComponentReplaces the end of the femur, typically made of metal for durability.

  2. Tibial ComponentIncludes a metal base plate and a polyethylene spacer to replace the tibial surface and act as a cushion.

  3. Patellar ComponentA polyethylene disc replaces the underside of the kneecap to improve articulation.

  4. Fixation MethodCan be cemented or cementless, with the latter relying on bone growth for stability.

Related Terms

  • Total Knee Replacement (TKR): Surgical replacement of the entire knee joint.

  • Partial Knee Replacement: Replacement of only the damaged portion of the knee joint.

  • Biocompatibility: The ability of materials to coexist with the body without causing adverse reactions.

  • Wear Debris: Microscopic particles generated from prosthetic joint movement, which can lead to inflammation or implant failure.

  • Robotic-Assisted Surgery: Technology used to improve precision in knee prosthesis placement and alignment.

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