During total knee replacement, aslo known as knee arthroplasty, damaged bone and cartilage are removed and replaced with a prosthesis. The thighbone (femur), and shinbone (tibia) are resurfaced with artificial materials. The kneecap (patella) may also be involved in the procedure but is less frequent.

Further Reading:

American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons: Total Knee Replacement

BioMet: Knee Joint Replacement

Stryker: Knee Replacement Systems