Abstract: An implantable prosthetic bearing is constructed of a composite material having a first layer and second layer. The first layer has an articulating surface defined therein, whereas the second layer has a engaging surface defined therein for engaging either another prosthetic component or the bone itself. The first layer of the implantable prosthetic bearing is constructed of a polymer such as polyethylene or UHMWPE, whereas the second layer is constructed of a copolymer of ethylene and an acrylate. The ethylene portion of the copolymer provides for adhesion to the polymer of the first layer, whereas the acrylate portion of the copolymer provides for adhesion to commonly utilized bone cements. A method of making a prosthetic bearing is also disclosed.

Abstract: A process for forming an oriented orthopaedic implant prosthesis bearing, net-shape bearing, or near net-shape bearing includes the step of placing an irradiated UHMWPE preform or puck of a volume sufficient to accommodate the bearing in a compression mold and compression molding the irradiated preform. The molding is accomplished by applying heat and pressure to form the preform into a desired shape. The compression molding induces biaxial orientation in the formed bearing.

Abstract: A knee prosthesis is provided including a tibial component having first and second generally concave bearing surfaces and a stabilizing post extending upwardly between the first and second bearing surfaces. The knee prosthesis also includes a femoral component having first and second spaced apart, convexly curved condyle bearing surfaces and a cam surface extending between the first and second bearing surfaces. The femoral component is articulatable with the tibial component between an extended position and a flexed position. The first and second femoral bearing surfaces engage the first and second tibial bearing surfaces, respectively, at first and second contact points. Between the extended position and about a 25.degree. flexion angle, the cam surface is spaced apart from a posterior side wall of the stabilizing post to permit movement of the femoral and tibial component as natural physiology dictates. As the knee prosthesis is flexed at about a 25.degree.