Types of Total Knee Replacement

In a total replacement, damaged surfaces of the thigh bone and shin bone are replaced, and the kneecap may also be resurfaced. Fixed-bearing designs use a plastic insert secured within the tibial component; mobile-bearing designs allow limited movement of that insert. The choice depends on knee anatomy and the surgeon’s plan rather than a simple ranking.

Fixation may use Bone Cement, which anchors the components while the cement hardens, or a cementless surface designed for bone to grow onto the implant. Components may include Cobalt-Chrome Alloy or Titanium Implant, with a Highly Cross-Linked Polyethylene insert used as a bearing surface in many designs. Computer Navigation for Surgery can help the team plan and check alignment. Knee Osteoarthritis is one reason replacement may be considered when pain and function remain limited.

Discuss your symptoms, previous operations, bone health, allergies, activity goals and any medical conditions with the orthopaedic team. Ask to see which component materials and fixation method are proposed and why they suit your anatomy. Before surgery, plan home support, transport and the exercises recommended by your physiotherapist. Rehabilitation usually builds gradually: early movement and walking practice are followed by strengthening and task-specific work.

Before surgery, request review if knee pain, swelling or Difficulty Climbing Stairs is rapidly worsening or a new injury changes your ability to walk. After surgery, contact the care team promptly for increasing wound redness, drainage, fever, calf swelling, sudden breathlessness, new foot numbness or a knee that becomes suddenly unstable. Follow the discharge instructions for emergencies.

Ask which implant design is planned, whether the components will be cemented, which materials will be used, how alignment will be assessed, and what recovery milestones are realistic for your work and home activities.