What Materials Are Used in Joint Replacement?

Arthroplasty, also known as joint replacement, is a treatment that involves replacing a damaged joint with a prosthetic joint, commonly called a prosthesis. These prostheses are designed to replicate the movement of a normal, healthy joint, as your physical therapist in Phoenix, AZ, can tell you.

Metals

Stainless steel, cobalt-chromium alloys, and titanium alloys are used because of their strength and durability. They’re often used in parts of the implant that need to withstand the most stress, such as the femoral component of a hip replacement.

Plastics

High-density polyethylene, a type of plastic, is often used for the socket part of hip or knee replacements. It’s durable and provides a smooth surface for the metal components to move against.

Ceramics

Ceramic materials can be used on a joint replacement’s ball and socket parts. Ceramic components can be made of alumina, zirconia, or a combination of these materials.

Composite Materials

Some joint replacements use composite materials, which are a combination of two or more different types of materials. For example, a metal-on-metal (MoM) hip replacement uses a metal ball and a metal socket. Other combinations include metal-on-polyethylene (MoP), ceramic-on-metal (CoM), ceramic-on-polyethylene (CoP), and ceramic-on-ceramic (CoC).

The choice of materials depends on several factors, including the patient’s age, activity level, and the specific joint being replaced. Each material has its own advantages and potential drawbacks, and ongoing research continues to improve the materials used in joint replacement surgery to increase their longevity and effectiveness.

Often, physical rehabilitation in Phoenix, AZ, can restore joint movement so that a joint replacement isn’t necessary. But if you need a joint replacement, at least now you’ll know what materials are most commonly used. To book your next physical rehabilitation appointment, contact us today.