Knee Replacement Surgery (Arthroplasty)
The MSIC library includes many detailed and precise anatomical illustrations of knee replacement surgery that show the process of both repairing and replacing a knee. The precise and detailed images are ideal for all forms of output, including textbooks, patient information forms and marketing material.
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Knee Replacement Illustrations
What is knee replacement surgery and how is it done?
Knee replacement surgery can be total or partial. In total knee replacement, both sides of the knee are replaced and the joint surface at 
the end of the femur and top of the tibia is removed and replaced with an artificial one. Most replacements will last around 20 years. If an artificial knee needs to be replaced then the surgery is called complex or revision surgery. Partial knee replacement usually involves replacing the inner (or medial) part of the knee. Although the surgery is less severe than a total knee replacement and involves a shorter recovery time, the surgery itself is more complex and thus has a slightly elevated risk of requiring revision surgery earlier than a total knee replacement.
In total knee replacement surgery, the ends of the bones of the knee joint (between the tibia and femur) are removed and replaced by a prosthesis, usually made of metal and plastic. Each knee is measured and crafted for a particular individual during the operation. During the surgery, a large cut is made to expose the kneecap so the surgeon can access the lower part of the thigh bone (femur) and upper part of the shin bone (tibia).
Reasons for knee replacement surgery
Knee replacement surgery is needed when the bones rub together and are worn away. This is particularly common in cases of osteoarthritis but can also be caused by conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, gout, injury and disorders of bone growth. The degeneration of the knee can lead to loss of mobility, severe pain and decrease in well-being.