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Monday, September 14, 2009

Knee Replacement Surgery: The Minimally Invasive Option

By Dr. Stefan Tarlow

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.

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.

This surgery is recommended for the patient who is of an average weight and activity level. The patient should have fairly good ROM (range of motion) and be relatively free of knee deformity. A patient who meets all of these criteria and has a successful procedure will be hospitalized for 3 days or less and will have little or no inpatient rehabilitation process.

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.

Another thing to consider is the fact that the risks of this surgery have not been formally studied or documented; however, they are surely quite similar to those of any other knee replacement surgery. For the most recent information on this, consult your orthopedic surgeon.

Click here for more on minimally invasive knee replacement .

Time At The Hospital

You will stay at the hospital for a short time after your surgery. During this time, you will be given medications to handle any pain you may be experiencing.

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.

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. - 17273

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