You may be a candidate for a minimally invasive total knee replacement when non-surgical measures for treating your knee pain have been inadequate and there is extensive damage to the cartilage of the knee. At the Philadelphia Center for Minimally Invasive Knee Surgery, approximately 90% of recipients of total knee replacement surgery are candidates for a minimally invasive approach.
The purpose of total knee replacement surgery is to remove the damaged areas of the knee joint, restore alignment and stability, and relieve pain using specially designed implants.
The minimally invasive technique, sometimes referred to as MIS, is a refined approach that utilizes a smaller incision than the more traditional approach, generally resulting in a more rapid and less painful recovery with better early range of motion and improved function.
The modified technique and instruments allow the use of the same clinically proven knee replacement components, but typically through a three- to five-inch incision instead of the larger eight- to 12-inch incision used during the standard surgical technique. The minimally invasive approach also avoids cutting into the quadriceps tendon, resulting in the benefits described below.
The benefits of minimally invasive knee surgery include:
Less blood loss during surgery
Less pain during recovery
Shorter hospital stay
Increased range of motion sooner after surgery
Faster recovery and rehabilitation
Smaller scar
Quicker return to independent activities
Dr. Jess Lonner discusses his approach to
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