Fixed Bearings versus Rotating Platforms in Total Knee Arthroplasty
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 13, 2026

Treatment of Ankle Osteoarthritis with Total Ankle Replacement Through a Lateral Transfibular Approach
Published on: January 24, 2018
Peter B White1, Amar S Ranawat1, Chitranjan S Ranawat1
1Department of Othopedics, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, New York.
Abstract:
Rotating platforms were introduced as an alternative to fixed bearings in hopes of providing more natural kinematics and improved clinical outcomes. In-vitro wear studies showed significantly less wear with rotating platforms as opposed to fixed-bearing designs. Kinematic follow-up studies showed significantly improved axial rotation with rotating-platform knees. However, these benefits have failed to translate into improved clinical outcomes or survivorship. This article reviews our institution's experience, as well as the latest clinical research on wear, kinematics, clinical outcomes, and survivorship of fixed-bearing and rotating-platform knees.
Related Concept Videos
Pivot Bearings
A pivot bearing is a specialized type of bearing designed to support axial loads on a rotating shaft. The bearing surface, or the pivot, is positioned at the end of a shaft to support the axial thrust. The pivot may...
Knee Joint
A total of seven ligaments support the knee joint. The patellar ligament, which is also attached to the quadriceps femoris...
Bones of the Lower Limb: Femur and Patella
Journal Bearings
To better understand the concept of journal bearings, consider a rope winch with dry or...

