This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace the expert guidance of your orthopedic surgeon. Any questions or concerns you may have should be directed to your orthopedic surgeon. The knee is a complex joint consisting of bones and healthy cartilage. The end of your femur (thighbone) can be compared to a rocking chair. It has two distinct surfaces called compartments, which rest on the tibia (shinbone). A third compartment is found behind the patella (kneecap), and all three compartments are covered with cartilage to help cushion and lubricate the bones during movement. Osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis, is a wear and tear condition that affects joint cartilage, and it develops after years of constant motion and pressure in the joints. As the cartilage continues to wear away, the joint becomes increasingly painful and difficult to move. If conservative treatment options fail to provide relief, your surgeon may recommend total knee replacement.		About The Knee Total Knee Replacement Unicompartmental Knee Replacement Minimally Invasive Total Knee Replacement Cemented Total Knee Replacement Computer Navigation