Recently, minimally invasive knee replacement has made a mark in the world of orthopedic surgery. This technique is a tremendous advance in performing total knee replacement surgery. It is also a far more challenging surgery.

Because smaller incisions are used than in traditional knee replacement surgery, the joint is exposed far less. This translates into less pain and trauma. A patient who has a successful minimally invasive knee surgery procedure can expect to be hospitalized a very short time and have a quick and easy recovery 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

You will have a brief hospital stay following your surgery. During this time you may be feeling a bit of pain. You will be glad to know that you will be given medication to deal with it.

You should talk with your orthopedic surgeon about pain medications before your surgery. In this way, you will not experience any surprises in this important area of your recovery. Also, discuss movement and exercise. Be prepared to begin your rehabilitation almost immediately after surgery.

Another thing you will want to be aware of is the fact that lung congestion is a risk after any surgery. Be sure to cough frequently and breathe deeply to avoid this problem.

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.

Dr. Tarlow is a Board Certified Orthopaedic Surgeon with over 20 years specializing in knee surgery. He opened his own clinic, Advanced Knee Care, with a focus on specialty patient care. Click here to learn more about Dr. Tarlow, knees and partial and total knee.

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