Is partial knee replacement done with cobalt-chrome alloy?

Partial knee replacement resurfaces the damaged compartment of the knee while preserving healthier bone, cartilage and ligaments where appropriate. A metal component can form the replacement surface on the thighbone or shinbone, and a separate bearing component allows the surfaces to move against each other.

Cobalt-chrome alloy is a hard metal used in some orthopaedic implants. The presence of this alloy does not describe the whole implant: a replacement may combine more than one material, and the chosen design is influenced by the affected compartment, bone quality, alignment, ligament function and the surgeon’s plan. The [Cobalt-Chrome Alloy](/materials/cobalt-chrome-alloy/) page gives material-focused context.

Ask the orthopaedic team which components are planned and why they fit your knee anatomy. Request the implant name and material information for your records, and discuss allergies, previous reactions to metals, dental concerns and any planned imaging. Understanding the material is useful, but surgical suitability also depends on the condition of the rest of the knee.

Review the procedure, rehabilitation plan and expected restrictions with the team. More information about the operation is available under [Partial Knee Replacement](/treatments/joint-replacement/partial-knee-replacement/).

After surgery, contact the care team for increasing wound redness, drainage, fever, calf swelling, new numbness or pain that is not controlled by the prescribed plan. Seek urgent help for chest pain, severe breathlessness, fainting or a suddenly cold, pale or weak leg.

Which part of the implant is cobalt-chrome alloy? What other materials are included? Why is this implant design suitable for my knee? How will you record the implant details, and what symptoms after surgery should prompt a call?