Knee replacement, also called knee arthroplasty or total knee replacement, is a surgical procedure to resurface a knee damaged by arthritis. Metal and plastic parts are used to cap the ends of the bones that form the knee joint, along with the kneecap.

Do you keep your kneecap with a knee replacement?

This cut is often 8 to 10 inches (20 to 25 centimeters) long. Then your surgeon will: Move your kneecap (patella) out of the way, then cut the ends of your thigh bone and shin (lower leg) bone to fit the replacement part.

What are the components of a total knee replacement?

Total knee replacement surgeryTotal knee replacement consists of three main components: the femoral component, the tibial component, and the plastic spacer (polyethylene).