Spanning both the history and future of knee replacement, this unique book recounts how artificial knees have reached the stage they are today, and whether their performance can be further improved. The story starts in the late 1960’s with the early pioneers; during the 1970’s, the principles for successful artificial knees were established. While many different types were designed, a small number of these have become by far the most widely utilized. Yet other types of designs, so far little used, along with the application of computer-assisted surgery, could result in significant improvement in functional ability.  Each chapter provides a detailed description of the origins of the ideas and principles and their rationale, followed by the latest information and evidence on the subject. The book begins with an overview of the history and background of the artificial knee, in terms of design and implementation and the thought leaders involved. Fixation, specific components (e.g., femoral, tibial, patellar), and biomechanics are discussed in detail, both what has worked and what has not, and why. Instrumentation, testing and tribology are covered in chapters of their own, and book concludes with a look toward future possibilities for artificial knee design and materials. A glossary of relevant terms is included as well for quick reference. Part history and part in-depth review of the current state of the art, will appeal to both orthopedic surgeons and researchers, as well as medical academics and device companies. weiterlesen