Knee arthroplasty: Growing trends and future problems

Knee arthroplasty: Growing trends and future problems Article

Lavernia, CJ, Alcerro, JC, Contreras, JS. (2010). Knee arthroplasty: Growing trends and future problems . 5(5), 565-579. 10.2217/ijr.10.49

Total knee arthroplasty, as practiced in the early 21st century, is a product of almost 150 years of understanding the biomechanics of the knee as well as the development of prosthetic materials and surgical techniques, with good long-term results. Patient expectations after total knee arthroplasty have changed; patients undergo total knee arthroplasty hoping to restore their quality of life, which sometimes includes activities requiring high physical demand. Both cemented and uncemented knees provide long-lasting fixation. Minimally invasive surgery limits soft-tissue damage and may facilitate faster rehabilitation. Better materials and implant designs have increased the range of motion and decreased wear. Computer-assisted navigation surgery will render more accurate placement of implants. This article discusses developments in selected topics related to adult knee reconstruction to provide stable and durable implants. Finally, health economics will dictate what is affordable and cost effective in any healthcare system. © 2010 Future Medicine Ltd.