Search

Hip replacement is one of the most successful operations to treat painful hip osteoarthritis. Initially, osteoarthritis can be treated conservatively, i.e. without surgery. The use of an artificial hip joint is considered depending on the level of suffering (intensity of pain) and limitation of mobility, as well as the patient’s quality of life. Now considered a routine operation, this mostly painless procedure can restore the original mechanism of the hip joint, meaning that, for the patient, the artificial joint feels similar to a natural one.

An artificial knee joint is used to replace the natural sliding and surface areas of the knee joint when these have become worn. The components for replacing these surfaces, the femoral cap and the tibial plate, are made from highly polished metal (cobalt-chromium alloy). Between the metal surfaces there is a cartilage replacement made from polyethylene (a highly advanced plastic). Once the components of the artificial knee joint have been implanted in the body, they are held together in a stable position and guided during movement by the knee’s own ligaments, the joint capsule and the strength of the muscles.

Osteoarthritis does not always affect all areas of the knee joint. If only the kneecap or the inner or outer part of the knee joint is affected by wear, a partial knee prosthesis (also known as a sled prosthesis) may be considered. Compared to a total prosthesis, a partial prosthesis generally results in better mobility and a more natural-feeling knee.