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Wednesday, October 28, 2009

The Facts About Minimally Invasive Knee Surgery

By Dr. Stefan Tarlow

Minimally invasive knee replacement is a fairly recent development in knee surgery. It advances the performance of this type of surgery by greatly reducing trauma and recovery time. However, as a surgical procedure, it is much more challenging than traditional methods.

Minimally invasive knee surgery reduces trauma by using smaller incisions that expose the joint less. In fact, the incision used in this type of surgery are 50% smaller than those used in traditional total knee replacement surgery. Because of this, the recipient of minimally invasive knee surgery can expect reduced pain, a brief hospital stay, and a speedy rehabilitation period.

Patients who are not overweight, are relatively active with a fair amount of ROM (range of motion), and have no strong deformity of the knee(s) do well with this technique. They can enjoy a brief stay in the hospital of no more than 3 days. Inpatient rehabilitation will be speedy or nonexistent.

One thing you should keep in mind is that these findings are somewhat disputed. Most studies find the above statements to be true. There are, however, some studies that show that the pain experienced, length of hospital stay, and intensity of rehabilitation are the same as that one would experience with traditional total knee replacement surgery.

It is equally important to note that the risks associated with this type of surgery have not been specifically documented. There is, however, no reason to think that this type of surgery would hold any risks not associated with standard knee replacement surgery. Your orthopedic surgeon will be able to give you the latest information regarding this issue.

Click here for more on minimally invasive knee replacement .

Time At The Hospital

After your surgery, you will probably have a brief stay in the hospital. You may be experiencing a bit of pain after surgery, but you will be given medications to manage it.

Be sure to discuss your medication regimen with your orthopedic surgeon in advance of your surgery. You do not want any surprises. This is a very important part of your recovery, so it should go smoothly. Also, be prepared to begin moving your knee right away after surgery. This is also quite important to your overall recovery.

Any surgery compromises the lungs. Be sure to keep them clear with deep breathing exercises and frequent coughing, thereby avoiding lung congestion.

Your orthopedic surgeon will probably prescribe measures to prevent blood clotting in your leg veins. These measures might include compression boots, elevation, support stockings, and blood thinning medications.

CPM: Continuous Passive Motion may also be recommended. You will receive this therapy from an exercise machine that will keep your leg elevated and in constant, gentle movement while you are at rest. This will reduce the risk of blood clots and increase the flexibility of your knee. - 17269

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