Minimally Invasive Total Knee Replacement
The field of orthopedics is constantly researching new techniques to
help make joint replacement surgery less painful and to help patients
recover more quickly. One of the most talked about orthopedic
advancements is Microplasty™ or minimally invasive knee replacement,
also called mini-incision joint replacement.
Traditional total knee replacements require an incision
between six and eight inches long. The patient’s size and the extent of
the joint’s damage determine the length of the incision. The incision
must allow the surgeon to fully visualize the joint, the diseased
tissue, and the implants.
Minimally invasive total knee replacement is performed through
an approximately four-inch incision, half the length of a typical knee
replacement incision. The surgery can be performed through such a short
incision because of new instruments specifically designed to move
around soft tissue, rather than cut through it. Dr. DeLee performs
minimally invasive total knee replacement in many cases. Deformity and
anatomic variants may make minimally invasive knee replacement
impossible. Dr. DeLee will use the smallest incision possible to obtain
a good result.
Why Perform Minimally Invasive Knee Replacement?
For
patients who are candidates for the procedure, the answer is simple.
Patients desire to heal quickly so they can return to a more active and
enjoyable lifestyle. Minimally invasive knee replacement may result in
more rapid recovery and a shorter hospitalization. Scientific support
of these two claims has not been reported, however.
Before Surgery
You will be put on an
exercise program and prepare your knee strength and range of motion
before surgery. You may be visited at home before surgery by your
physical therapist to see if you have any special needs at home to
prepare for before hospital discharge (i.e. stairs, etc.)
After Surgery
After surgery you will
receive pain medication and begin physical therapy. It is important to
start moving your new knee as soon as possible after surgery to promote
blood flow, to regain knee motion, and to facilitate the recovery
process. You should be out of bed and walking with crutches or a walker
within 24 hours of your surgery.
You will be shown how to safely climb and descend stairs, how to
get into and out of a seated position, and how to care for your knee
once you return home. It is a good idea to enlist the help of friends
or family to help you once you do return home.
Before you leave the hospital, your therapist will show you a variety
of exercises designed to help you regain mobility and strength in
your knee. You should be able to perform these exercises on your
own at home. When at home, it is very important to continue with your
exercises as instructed.
Recovery After Minimally Invasive Knee Replacement
Recovery time after minimally invasive knee replacement may be shorter
than traditional total knee replacement recovery time. Every person’s
recovery time will vary, but most people should be able to drive and
garden after four weeks. You will be instructed as to when you can
return to daily normal activities and will also tell you which
activities to avoid.
You will typically not be allowed to participate in high-impact
activities or contact sports after knee replacement. These types of
activities place extreme pressure on the joints, which could lead to
complications.
Summary
We know the decision to have surgery is sometimes difficult. We hope
this information has helped you understand some of the basics of
minimally invasive knee replacement surgery so that you can make the
best decision for yourself. Millions of others have made this choice,
allowing them to return to more active lifestyles. This information is
not intended to replace the experience and counsel of your orthopedic
surgeon.
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