The Advantages of Minimally Invasive Joint Replacement

Have you ever been in so much pain and so stiff that you have trouble with your mobility? Well, that could be due to your joints. Joints can become damaged by arthritis, degenerative conditions, or injuries. Arthritis or simply years of use may cause a lot of wear and tear on your joints, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling. Bones are alive, and they need blood to be healthy, grow, and repair themselves. Diseases and damage inside a joint can actually limit blood flow, causing multiple problems, and if not treated properly, surgery may be required.

Joint replacement surgery has progressed leaps and bounds in the last couple of decades, and is now regarded as one of the most successful surgeries in the field of orthopedic medicine. There are millions of people around the world who suffer from crippling joint disorders and pain, and this form of treatment has come as a savior for such patients. As the surgical and technological advancements have constantly evolved, it has become possible to restore painless movement to the affected joint, so that the individual can return to a normal life after surgery.

The term minimally invasive surgery (MIS) has gained currency in recent years due to the advances in surgical methods and computer-assisted medical technology. Doctors, implant companies, and hospitals use the term to refer to several different strategies and procedures. Many of these strategies and procedures are aimed at performing them through smaller incisions. By reducing the size of the incision, the surgeon is able to reduce the damage to the underlying structure of the knee, which in turn does less injury to the patient. However, always remember that the size of the incision will be dictated by the size of the joint implant, and the need to be able to manipulate them inside the joint to get the optimal positioning. Getting accurate positioning is a large part to the success of the entire procedure.

If your orthopedic surgeon has training and experience in MIS, there can be several advantages to going with this new surgical technique. However, it is important to note that not every patient’s situation will allow for the procedure. In the case where the surgeon is experienced and the patient’s situation allows for minimally invasive surgery, then this may be an option to consider.

If you would like to experience the advantages of minimally invasive surgery or get more information, call Orthopaedic Associates of Central Maryland at (410) 644-1880, or request an appointment online.