Friday, November 25, 2011

Components of synthetic knee and how they are replaced


Synthetic knees are created through the use of ceramics. Ceramic is shaped such that it will have maximum resistance to compression and weight; also, it is designed such that it will glide easily from a frontal position to a distal position according to human movement. The ceramic is coated with polyethylene so that t will have resistance to deterioration and chemicals within the body.
Another method involves use of metal components. Metal components are fixed over the bone and then reinforced fully on the bone with polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) cement. Some procedures do not necessarily require the cement, but it is widely used for longer periods of usage. The patella (lower leg bone) consisting of tibia and fibula are cut according to the shape of the implant. Once the implant is completed, the implant is further connected to the quadriceps muscle and its corresponding femur bone. The catch here is that the new implant does not have to be configured to perform functions. It merely has the ability to glide if the bones are shifted from one position to another. Thus, the implant helps motion and aids the cooperation of both the femur and patella. The implants linings and component create a frictionless movement which aids the motion of the human leg when abducting and adducting (pushing in and out respectively).
The synthetic parts are designed such that they can be split into compartments and singular parts of the synthetic knee can be used for replacement instead of replacing an entire knee. This method is called unicompartmental replacement which is still in its infancy, but it seems to be quite useful. However, for optimum results, it is recommended that the entire knee be replaced so that the synthetic knee can incorporate all of its abilities to form a fully functioning knee.

2 comments:

  1. Are you going to include diagrams/cartoons for better representation and explanation?

    Also, this paragraph looks like it is downloaded from some internet portal. For the better report, I'd highly recommend that you rephrase the information and write it again using your own language/words.

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  2. Actually all of this information has been rephrased itself. I used several sources to gather general information, and i used the information collectively to piece this information together.

    I do intend to use multiple diagrams and pictures to better explain the processes and also to show which parts are replaced and how.

    Diagrams and figures are highly significant to the betterment of my presentation and they are great aids to the understanding of my information. THanks for the tip!

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