Medicine
Artificial Joints (Joint Replacement Prostheses)
Quick fact
The first modern hip replacement was performed in 1960 by Sir John Charnley, and his design—using a metal femoral head and a polyethylene socket—is still the basis for most hip implants today.
Why this is interesting
Your knee bends over a million times a year—what happens when the cushioning wears out? Artificial joints have helped millions walk again, but how do they actually work?