What is a total knee replacement and how is it different from a partial knee replacement?
A total knee replacement involves removing the bone and all cartilage on the end of the thigh bone (femur) and top of the shin bone (tibia). Then, a metal and plastic knee implant is put in place to function as a new knee joint. Depending on the condition of the cartilage under the kneecap, the kneecap may also be replaced.