Orthopaedic implants are used to replace or provide fixation of bone or to replace articulating surfaces of a joint. In other words, orthopaedic implants are medical devices used to replace damaged or troubled joints. The surgeons who perform implant surgeries are highly specialized and trained surgeons. The surgical procedures for each implant involves removal of the damaged joint and an artificial prosthesis replacement.
Stainless steel and titanium alloys are generally used to produce Orthopaedic implants because these provide strength. Implants are also lined with plastic to act as artificial cartilage. Few implants are cemented into place and others pressed to fit so that the bone can grow into the implant for strength.
Why do need for Orthopaedic Implants arise?
Osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint disease, is the primary reason for orthopaedic implants. Osteoarthritis causes cartilage to worn down resulting in painful bone to bone contact. Excess body weight and/or the lack of joint movement may be responsible for the break down of cartilage. Doctors suggest implants as an option only when all non-surgical treatments have failed, including weight loss.
Advantages & Disadvantages of Orthopaedic Implants It is important to understand that orthopaedic implants are designed differently by different manufacturers. The reason, for this, could be that the manufacturers use different theories to develop implants for each specific application. Orthopaedic implants helps in increasing mobility, reducing pain and give the quality of life back. Strict post-surgery recovery plan, infection, and possible malfunction are some of the disadvantages of orthopaedic implants.
Types of Orthopaedic Implants
Each orthopaedic implant is developed to correct the affected joint in a way that it withstand (or ease) the movement and stress associatedd. The role of orthopaedic implant is to enhance mobility and decrease pain. Broadly speaking, orthopaedic implants are available for the hip, knee, shoulder and elbow. As per a popular web site
www.ortho.in, there are many categories of orthopaedic implants based on application. You can check them over by clicking on following links:
