The cartilage of the knee can wear out over time as degenerative arthritis develops. When the painful arthritic symptoms fail to respond to medications and injections, surface replacement becomes an option.
Partial joint replacements such as Patellofemoral Replacement, Uni-Compartmental Replacement and Bi-Compartmental Replacement are available if the arthritis is not widespread throughout the knee. When the arthritis is severe and it involves the entire knee, Total Knee Replacement is indicated.