The rationale behind the concept of PHYSIOLOGICAL MATCHING◊ is simple: any change you make to the knee joint will ultimately impact the entire leg. Of course, as is so often the case, simple rarely means easy.
The primary hurdle to overcome in a knee replacement is the knee itself. Described as a hinge joint, the knee actually does much more than bend back and forth. In fact, every time your knee bends, forces in and around the knee cause it to move with a complex rotational motion that most of us never realize. However, when that motion is removed after knee replacement, the result can be disappointing.
Traditionally, most knee implants have attempted to replace the natural swing-and-rotate of the knee by building a simple pivot point into the implant (known as a rotating platform) or by using a slightly angled alignment of the implant during surgery. Unfortunately, both of these options can force the muscles and ligaments around the new joint to work harder and move in unfamiliar, stressful ways; resulting in pain, muscle fatigue and an unnatural feeling while walking or bending the knee.
The JOURNEY◊ II implant was designed using Smith & Nephew's proprietary LifeMOD◊ human simulation software. This advanced software system allows engineers to examine in a virtual 3-D environment the exact internal shapes and angled forces that act on the knee throughout each phase of motion. As a result, the JOURNEY II implant has been designed to physiologically match how the hard structures of a normal knee joint move and rotate in an effort to maintain normal muscle activity and return the patient's stride to it's a natural rhythm.
Important safety note
Individual results of joint replacement vary. Implants are intended to relieve knee pain and improve function, but may not produce the same feel or function as your original knee. There are potential risks with knee replacement surgery such as loosening, wear and infection that may result in the need for additional surgery. Patients should not perform high impact activities such as running and jumping unless their surgeon tells them that the bone has healed and these activities are acceptable. Early device failure, breakage or loosening may occur if a surgeon's limitations on activity level are not followed.
Talk to your doctor to determine what treatment may be best for you.
All information provided on this website is for information purposes only. Every patient's case is unique and each patient should follow his or her doctor's specific instructions. Please discuss nutrition, medication and treatment options with your doctor to make sure you are getting the proper care for your particular situation. If you are seeking this information in an emergency situation, please call 911 and seek emergency help.
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