What is the prosthesis made of?
The implant for a total knee replacement is made of a combination of metal and plastic. The metal parts are generally composed of cobalt chrome, and the plastic is made of ultra high molecular weight polyethylene. Q: Will I set off a metal detector? A: While knee implants generally do not set off metal detectors, more sensitive machines may register the presence of the implant. Some physicians give their patients cards to show at the airport that explain that the bearer has received a knee prosthesis containing metal. Q: How long does the operation take? A: The operation generally takes about 2 hours. Q: If both my knees have arthritis, can I have both replaced at the same time? A: Yes, healthy patients in their 60s or younger, with no cardiopulmonary disease may be candidates for such surgery. Your orthopaedist can tell you more about what is involved. Q: What kind of anesthesia is used? A: Most total knee replacements at the Hospital for Special Surgery are performed under regional a
