Is total knee replacement done with bone cement?

During knee replacement, damaged joint surfaces are shaped to receive artificial components. Bone cement can fill the space between an implant and prepared bone, helping hold the component in position while the knee heals. It is not the same as household adhesive and is selected for surgical use.

The fixation approach may differ between components or between patients. Bone quality, the implant design, alignment, activity needs and the surgeon’s experience all contribute to the plan. Find more detail in [Bone Cement](/materials/bone-cement/) and [Total Knee Replacement](/treatments/joint-replacement/total-knee-replacement/).

Ask whether bone cement will be used for every component and how the planned fixation fits your bone quality. Tell the team about allergies, previous operations, bone conditions, medicines and any prior reaction to surgical materials. Ask how fixation affects weight-bearing, exercises, follow-up imaging and the expected recovery plan.

Prepare for rehabilitation by arranging help with meals, bathing, transport and stairs. Follow the prescribed exercises and weight-bearing instructions; do not change them because the knee feels better on a particular day.

After surgery, contact the clinical team for worsening redness, drainage, fever, escalating pain, new numbness or swelling that is not settling. Seek urgent care for chest pain, breathlessness, fainting, a suddenly cold or pale foot, or severe calf pain with swelling. A fall or sudden loss of knee function also needs assessment.

Ask: Which components will be cemented? Why is this fixation suitable for my bone? What symptoms could indicate a wound or circulation problem? When can I put weight through the leg, and how will progress be checked?