Knee replacement implants that can be used for young patients are now a common thing. Surgeons were once afraid of suggesting knee replacement for young patients, because the implants were subjected to more wear and tear and that they had to undergo ‘revision’ surgery after a period, joint replacement specialist with Andhra Hospitals-VINS Heart and Brain Institute Jagadeesh Nallamothu said.
Dr. Jagadeesh added that knee replacement was usually recommended for persons in the 65-70 age group to avoid revision surgery. But, with the new implants that are comparatively durable and tissue-friendly, persons who are more than 50 years could go for joint replacement.
At the same time, more youngsters are going knee replacement now, he said.
According to him, the new AOX (anti-oxidant) implants that have to be ordered in advance from the US were available a the Heart and Brain Institute.
Over a period of time, certain amount of debris is generated at the joint. But, the debris generate by the anti-oxidant does not cause any damage, as it is tissue-friendly.
The material that acts as a cushion between the two bones, instead of cartilage, is impregnated with anti-oxidants and is more durable in the new implants, Dr. Jagadeesh explained.
The AOX knee replacement system has several patented technologies. The ‘Gradius’ curve of the implant made it the first of the kind and the person who underwent replacement could use the leg almost like a natural one, he said.
Published - February 27, 2015 12:00 am IST
