Definition

Noun: A man-made, surgically implanted device designed to replace a damaged or diseased natural joint in the body, such as those in the hip or knee, and less commonly the elbow or wrist. It is typically constructed from durable, biocompatible materials like metal alloys, high-grade plastics, and ceramics.

Usage

The term "artificial joint" is used specifically in medical and healthcare contexts to refer to the prosthetic implant itself. It describes the object, not the surgical procedure (arthroplasty) or the resulting state.

Examples

• After years of arthritis, my grandfather received an artificial joint in his left hip.
• The orthopedic surgeon explained the benefits and risks of the new ceramic artificial joint.
• Modern artificial joints are designed to last for many decades.

Advanced Usage

• "to have an artificial joint put in/installed": This phrasing describes the surgical procedure of implantation.
  • She had an artificial joint put in her knee last spring.
• "artificial joint replacement": A more formal term for the procedure or the field of medicine.
  • He is a specialist in artificial joint replacement.

Variants and Related Words

• Joint prosthesis (n): The formal medical term for an artificial joint.
  • The patient's joint prosthesis was functioning perfectly.
• Arthroplasty (n): The surgical procedure to reconstruct or replace a joint.
  • Knee arthroplasty successfully relieved her pain.

Synonyms

• Prosthetic joint: A synonym emphasizing its prosthetic, replacement function.
• Joint implant: A synonym focusing on the surgical implantation aspect.

Related Phrases

• Artificial joint failure: Refers to the situation where the implant wears out, loosens, or becomes infected, requiring revision surgery.
  • The patient was readmitted due to artificial joint failure.
• Artificial joint recipient: A person who has undergone joint replacement surgery.
  • As an artificial joint recipient, she followed her physical therapy regimen diligently.

Noun

1. a metal or plastic part that is surgically implanted to replace a natural joint (possibly elbow or wrist but usually hip or knee)