Definition

The minimally invasive knee replacement is performed by making a small incision in the knee to replace lost cartilage and diseased bone. This is a new technique used to perform a total knee replacement.

Alternative Medical Names

• Mini-incision Joint Replacement
• Mini Total Knee Replacement

Who is a Candidate?

People whose:

• Primary care doctor or orthopedic surgeon has recommended a knee replacement.
• Knee structure is stable and doesn't suffer from severe bone loss around the knee.
• Knee limits them from their daily activity.

Benefits of the Minimally Invasive Technique

• Smaller, less noticeable incision- 4 to 5 inches vs. 8 to 12 inches with a total knee replacement.
• Shorter rehabilitation.
• Less blood loss.
• Shorter hospital stay.
• Faster return of basic knee functions.

What is a Minimally Invasive Knee Replacement?

The surgeon makes a 4 to 5 inch incision in the patient's knee. The damaged surfaces of the knee are removed and the ends of the bones are reshaped. The implant is secured to the bones. Once the surgeon has completed this procedure, the incision is then closed. The surgery usually takes between one and three hours to perform. The procedure has the same long-term outcome as the traditional total knee replacement.

Learn more about a traditional Total Knee Replacement.

Post-Surgical Treatment

• Pain Management Medications
• Physical Therapy Sessions

10/14/2008