The Facts About Minimally Invasive Knee Surgery

Recently, minimally invasive knee replacement has made a mark in the world of orthopedic surgery. This technique is a tremendous advance in performing total knee replacement surgery. It is also a far more challenging surgery.

The incisions used in minimally invasive knee surgery are about half the size of those used in standard knee replacement surgery. Because of this the joint is less exposed. This results in less pain, a shorter hospital stay and faster rehabilitation.

Patients who are not overweight, are relatively active with a fair amount of ROM (range of motion), and have no strong deformity of the knee(s) do well with this technique. They can enjoy a brief stay in the hospital of no more than 3 days. Inpatient rehabilitation will be speedy or nonexistent.

One thing you should keep in mind is that these findings are somewhat disputed. Most studies find the above statements to be true. There are, however, some studies that show that the pain experienced, length of hospital stay, and intensity of rehabilitation are the same as that one would experience with traditional total knee replacement surgery.

Another thing to consider is the fact that the risks of this surgery have not been formally studied or documented; however, they are surely quite similar to those of any other knee replacement surgery. For the most recent information on this, consult your orthopedic surgeon.

Click here for more on minimally invasive surgery .

Your Hospital Stay

After your surgery, you will probably have a brief stay in the hospital. You may be experiencing a bit of pain after surgery, but you will be given medications to manage it.

Be sure to discuss your medication regimen with your orthopedic surgeon in advance of your surgery. You do not want any surprises. This is a very important part of your recovery, so it should go smoothly. Also, be prepared to begin moving your knee right away after surgery. This is also quite important to your overall recovery.

Another thing you will want to be aware of is the fact that lung congestion is a risk after any surgery. Be sure to cough frequently and breathe deeply to avoid this problem.

Blood clotting sometimes causes problems after knee surgery. To keep the veins in your legs free of clots, your orthopedic surgeon may prescribe blood thinning medications, compressive stockings, compression boots, and/or elevation.

A machine called CPM or continuous passive motion exercise machine may be used. This machine helps reduce the possibility of blood clots and improve flexibility of the knee by keeping it in continuous, gentle motion while keeping it elevated.

Dr. Tarlow is a Board Certified Orthopaedic Surgeon with over 20 years specializing in knee surgery. He opened his own clinic, Advanced Knee Care, with a focus on specialty patient care. Click here to learn more about Dr. Tarlow, orthopedic surgeon and total knee.