People may feel pain in their bones and joints as they age. If someone sustains a catastrophic injury in an accident or their bones or joints deteriorate due to a chronic ailment, this pain may get intense.
They might need to speak with an expert orthopedic surgeon like Dr.Hill to decide on the best course of action. An orthopedic implant is a great solution option if painkillers are ineffective in treating it. Implants not only aid in stabilizing the muscular system but also improve the patient's movement and flexibility.
Let’s plunge into the discussion to learn more about orthopedic implants and how they work.
What are Orthopedic Implants?
An orthopedic implant can replace a joint, bone, or piece of cartilage that has been damaged or developed abnormally. For example, a patient might require an implant due to a congenital impairment, limb loss, or leg fracture. Surgeons can also use an implant to replace the articulating surfaces in various body joints and aid in bone fixation.
How do Orthopedic Implants Work
Depending on the patient's condition, the orthopedic surgeon uses various surgical techniques to implant medical devices into the body.
Consider a joint that has deteriorated past a certain degree. In that situation, the surgeon uses a variety of orthopedic instruments specially created for the procedure to remove the injured joint and replace it with an orthopedic implant.
Most orthopedic implants are constructed of stainless steel and titanium alloys, some of which could even include a plastic lining. The steel framework of the implant provides its essential strength, while the plastic lining acts as synthetic cartilage.
In most cases, the surgeon puts the implant in a specific position so the bone can grow and strengthen. To improve adhesion, the surgeon may occasionally cement the orthopedic implant.
Types of Orthopedic Implants
Screws
A screw is an orthopedic implant that resembles the screws you may find at any hardware store. However, an orthopedic screw may have either a crosshead or a flat head. The primary function of screws during orthopedic implants is to produce compression, which helps mend the bones in the injured area. The screw tightens the damaged areas, such as the rotator cuff or the torn labrum.
Plates
Orthopedic plates were first used in 1886 to treat long bone fractures and are still frequently used today. They come in a variety of forms, as follows:
Bridging plates
Neutralization Plates
Compression plates
Tension Plates
Prostheses
The prosthesis is yet another orthopedic implant that can restore lost bones or joints. Surgeons also utilize it to provide broken bones with the support they need. Patients can quickly restore their physical strength and activities after receiving this implant, which is generally utilized for knees and hips.
Summing Up
Now that you know the types of orthopedic implants and how they work, you can speak openly with your orthopedic surgeon before surgery. Experts like Dr. Hill make sure to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of the procedure as well as the safety measures that patients must take. You can ask for more details by making an appointment today.
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