Key new technology and science:
“ Today, several research fronts are revolutionizing knee and hip replacements to the point where the joints are practically becoming bionic, from 3-D printed implants to concept technologies that grow entire joints from stem cells.
The big trick behind these advances is recreating the durability of a natural joint in one that is manufactured, while also fooling the human body into believing that it's home-grown.
Rix received an implant called the Furlong Evolution, which features a special ceramic coating that mimics a natural mineral present in human bone. The material triggers a biological bond to form between the implant and the patient's own bone, ensuring that the replacement lasts longer - hopefully for life.”