Prosthetic knee design: load transfer

A study was undertaken to determine the contact areas and loads in the normal, meniscetomized, and artificial knee joints. The study provides insight into only one aspect of prosthesis design, specifically the load transfer through the implant. The generation of wear debris from metal, polyethylene, or cement-bone interface can lead to patient symptoms due to synovitis, implant loosening, or fatigue failure of the implant. The pressure measurements, loading protocols, and prosthesis implantations methods used in the study are discussed. Results of pressure measurements on the medial and lateral compartments of the tibia are presented.<
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