How Exactly Is Minimally Invasive Knee Replacement Surgery Performed?

What Is Minimally Invasive Knee Replacement Surgery?

Knee Replacement Surgery is one of the most common orthopaedic surgery. This surgery is performed to replace the damaged knee joint with an artificial joint. Knee replacement surgery uses modern biomaterials. These modern biomaterials are made of a synthetic or partially synthetic material which is used to take the place of parts of the body which mimics the function of the natural joint. Use of modern material allows knee replacements to last well in appropriately selected patients.

Minimally invasive knee replacement surgery is a less invasive technique which is not recommended to everyone. This approach is performed by making a small incision which reduces postoperative pain and has a faster recovery.

Candidates for Minimal Invasive Knee Replacement Surgery

Minimal invasive knee replacement surgery is not recommended to everyone. Before recommending this surgery the surgeons perform a thorough evaluation considering several factors. Generally, the right candidate for minimally invasive knee replacement surgery are younger, thinner, more active, healthier and most importantly are motivated to participate in the rehabilitation process, as compared to patients who undergo traditional knee replacement surgery. Patients who are overweight or have already undergone other knee surgeries are less suitable for minimally invasive surgery.  

How is Minimal Invasive Knee Replacement Surgery performed?

Minimally invasive surgery is performed by making 4 to 6 inches long incision. The surgery is performed under general anaesthesia in sterile conditions. The patient is asked to lay on their back and a tourniquet is applied on their upper thigh to reduce blood loss. The surgeon then makes an incision along the affected knee to expose the knee joint. While performing this surgery the surgeon focuses on the femur which is the thighbone and removes its damaged part in appropriate angles using specialized jigs. The surgeon then attaches the femoral component at the end of the femur with or without the bone cement.

Next, the surgeon removes the damaged area of the tibia and the cartilage which provides a smooth surface to which the implants are attached. The tibial component is then secured to the end of the bone with the help of cement or screws. The surgeon then places a piece of plastic which is also referred as articular surface between the implants to ensure a smooth gliding movement. The plastic material inserted acts same as the original articular cartilage which supports the body weight and allows the femur bone to move over the tibia. The tibia and the femur help the new component to put together to form the new knee joint. 

To ensure that the knee cap glides smoothly over the new artificial knee, its rear surface is prepared in such a way that plastic components can be attached to it. The knee joint is examined with all the new components placed together. The excess cement is then removed and the entire joint is cleaned out a sterile saline solution. The incision is then carefully closed. 

Benefits of undergoing Minimal Invasive Knee Replacement Surgery

• Smaller incision.
• Less loss of blood. 
• Less disturbance to nearby tissues.
• Less discomfort.
• Less pain.
• Shorter stay at hospitals.
• Shorter period of rehabilitation
• Earlier return to work.
• Faster Recovery.

Why India for Minimally Invasive Knee Replacement Surgery?

The knee replacement surgery success rate in India is very high which has attracted many patients abroad. Knee joint replacement surgery cost in India is very less as compared to in any other country. India has some of the best orthopaedic surgeons and hospitals that offer services for minimally invasive knee replacement surgery at the most affordable costs.