Knee What is XLPE?

What is XLPE or Highly Cross-Linked Plastic?

As remarkable as OXINIUM^◊ Oxidized Zirconium is, it is the combination of the OXINIUM material on XLPE that makes VERILAST^◊ Technology. XLPE is created by altering chemical bonds in the polyethylene we use to create our plastic inserts. By doing so, we are able to create a tighter weave at the molecular level, thus reducing the amount of wear experienced when the metal component rubs against it. Perhaps the easiest way to think of it is like a fabric with a higher thread count.

Important Safety Notes:

Knee replacement surgery is intended to relieve knee pain and improve knee functions. However, implants may not produce the same feel or function as your original knee. There are potential risks with knee replacement surgery such as loosening, fracture, dislocation, wear and infection that may result in the need for additional surgery. Longevity of implants depends on many factors, such as types of activities and weight. Do not perform high impact activities such as running and jumping unless your surgeon tells you the bone has healed and these activities are acceptable. Early device failure, breakage or loosening may occur if you do not follow your surgeon's limitations on activity level. Early failure can happen if you do not guard your knee joint from overloading due to activity level, failure to control body weight or accidents such as falls. Talk to your doctor to determine what treatment may be best for you.

The information listed on this site is for informational and educational purposes and is not meant as medical advice. Every patient's case is unique and each patient should follow his or her doctor's specific instructions. Please discuss nutrition, medication and treatment options with your doctor to make sure you are getting the proper care for your particular situation.

All information provided on this website is for information purposes only. Every patient's case is unique and each patient should follow his or her doctor's specific instructions. Please discuss nutrition, medication and treatment options with your doctor to make sure you are getting the proper care for your particular situation. If you are seeking this information in an emergency situation, please call 911 and seek emergency help.

All materials copyright © 2018 Smith & Nephew, All Rights Reserved.