Because of frequent joint bleeds, minor and major orthopedic procedures are the most common elective procedures needed in people with hemophilia A or B with inhibitors. To learn more about your surgical procedure, select from the options in the drop down menu below.
TOTAL KNEE REPLACEMENT
Total knee replacement surgery involves removing the damaged and painful areas of the lower femur (thigh bone) and upper tibia (lower leg bone). These areas are then replaced with specially designed metal and plastic parts, called a prosthesis.
The damaged portions of the thigh bone and cartilage are cut away. Then the end of the bone is reshaped to allow the replacement part to be attached to it.
Next, the damaged portions of the lower leg bone and cartilage are cut away. The end of the bone is reshaped to allow the other prosthetic component to be attached to it.
A plastic plate is attached to the lower leg bone component. The plate will support the body's weight and allow the thigh bone to move smoothly over the lower leg bone.
To make sure the knee cap (patella) glides smoothly over the new artificial knee, its rear surface is prepared and a plastic component is attached to it.
X-ray image courtesy of Hemophilia Treatment Center at Orthopedic Hospital, Los Angeles. Courtesy of James V Luck and Mauricio Silva
Total knee replacement surgery involves removing the damaged and painful areas of the lower femur (thigh bone) and upper tibia (lower leg bone). These areas are then replaced with specially designed metal and plastic parts, called a 
