A Word About Minimally Invasive Options

Some total joint replacement patients are candidates for minimally invasive surgery.

The goal of minimally invasive and traditional surgery is the same, but the approach is slightly different. In the minimally invasive approach, surgeons remove the worn joint surface and replace it using special tools to visualize the area and therefore can make a smaller than usual incision, or opening. Patients tend to recover faster and with less pain because the surgery disturbs fewer surrounding muscles and tendons and the wound is not as big.

Ask your surgeon if minimally invasive surgery is an option for you and whether your surgeon has experience in the technique. Minimally invasive surgery requires training and skills beyond those of traditional orthopaedic surgery.