Wear of articular bearing surface of internal prosthetic left knee joint digital illustration

Wear of articular bearing surface of internal prosthetic left knee joint Save


ICD-10 code: T84.063

Chapter: Injury, poisoning and certain other consequences of external causes

Wear of Articular Bearing Surface of Internal Prosthetic Left Knee Joint

Articular bearing surface wear is a common issue in internal prosthetic left knee joints, which can lead to various complications such as pain, instability, and limited range of motion. The wear of the bearing surface can be caused by a variety of factors such as patient activity level, implant design, and patient anatomy.

One of the most significant factors contributing to the wear of the articular bearing surface is the patient's activity level. Patients who are more active tend to put more stress on their knee joint, which can lead to increased wear and tear on the bearing surface. This wear can cause the implant to become loose or even dislocate, leading to pain and instability.

Implant design also plays a significant role in the wear of the articular bearing surface. Implants with poor design or materials that are not wear-resistant can quickly wear out, leading to complications. Therefore, it is essential to choose an implant with a robust and durable bearing surface that can withstand the patient's activity level.

Another factor that can contribute to the wear of the bearing surface is the patient's anatomy. Patients with abnormal knee alignment or joint anatomy may put extra stress on certain parts of the implant, leading to increased wear and tear on the bearing surface. Proper alignment and sizing of the implant can help reduce wear and improve implant longevity.

Complications of Articular Bearing Surface Wear

The wear of the articular bearing surface can lead to several complications, including pain, instability, and limited range of motion. Patients may experience pain due to the increased stress on the implant caused by wear. Instability can also occur due to the loosening or dislocation of the implant, which can cause the patient to feel unsteady while walking or standing. Limited range of motion can occur due to the wear of the implant, which can restrict movement in the knee joint.

Treatment Options for Articular Bearing Surface Wear
  1. Activity modification: Patients may need to modify their daily activities to reduce stress on the implant and prevent further wear. Avoiding high-impact activities such as running or jumping can help reduce wear and improve implant longevity.

  2. Physical therapy: Physical therapy can help improve knee strength and range of motion, which can help reduce wear on the implant. Strengthening exercises for the muscles around the knee joint can help support the implant and reduce stress on the bearing surface.

  3. Medications: Medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help relieve pain and inflammation caused by articular bearing surface wear.

  4. Surgical intervention: In severe cases, surgical intervention may be