Minimally invasive knee replacement surgery is the surgical procedure that may be performed through a 4-inch incision which is half the length of a typical knee replacement incision. The incisions allow the surgeon to insert the small tools and instruments specifically designed to move around the soft tissue rather than cut through it.
Minimally invasive knee replacement surgery is a technique and not an implant. The surgeon can lengthen the incision if needed during the surgery and select the implant that will best treat your specific condition.
Benefits of Minimally Invasive Knee Replacement Surgery
The replacement surgery is performed to get rid of the knee problems that may be caused due to arthritis or any other deformity. Hence the technique has some benefits which are listed below-
- The hospital stays are shorter with this technique.
- The technique offers accelerated recovery process
- Minimum blood loss
- Less scar tissue
- No damage to healthy tissue and muscles.
- Quicker mobilization.
- The incisions are smaller
- Less pain
- Reduced risk of infection
Complications with the Technique
Nothing is perfect likewise every technique has some sort of risks and complications associated with it. Some of the complications of minimally invasive knee replacement surgery are-
- Blood clots can be observed.
- Implant Breakage
- Misalignment and premature wear.
- One can experience stiffness and pain
- Excessive weight after the surgery can affect the longevity of the implant.
Before Surgery
The patients are suggested to go for strengthening exercises to prepare themselves for the surgery and recovery thereafter. The patient might need to follow a proper nutrition plan to ensure optimum health before surgery. The surgeon might work with a medical physician before the surgery to obtain tests. You may be guided on how to prepare your home to avoid any kind of mishaps.
After The Surgery
The surgeon may keep the patient on unique pain program to reduce the postoperative pain. This will, in turn, help the patient in speeding up the recovery in combination with the rehabilitation. The patient can expect a stay of 2-3 days in the hospital post surgery. Pain medications and physical therapies are followed. The patient is allowed to move the knee as soon as possible after the surgery to enhance the blood flow in order to regain the motion of the knee. Within 24 hours the patient is made to move out of the bed and walk with crutches or walker. The patient will be guided with the variety of exercise designed to regain the strength and mobility in their knee which they should perform on their own at home. At home, it is mandatory for the patient to continue with the exercises as instructed by the physician.
Recovery
The recovery time will vary from person to person but usually, it takes 2 weeks to get back to the routine. However, the time taken for recovery in minimally invasive knee replacement surgery is half the time required for traditional knee replacement surgery. Strictly follow the instructions of the surgeon of when to get back to the daily activities and which activities are to be avoided. Choosing minimally invasive technique over traditional concept is always a smart move as the
Cost of knee replacement surgery is also low and affordable with more positive outcomes.
