Minimally invasive joint surgery involves making small “keyhole” incisions, which protect muscle tissue from damage. This approach has the same benefits as traditional joint surgery, but with lower risk, pain levels and recovery time.
Cutting-edge technology has made knee, hip and other joint replacements easier and more efficient. Those seeking minimally invasive options can benefit from this technique. This guide will cover the types, advantages, limitations and timeline associated with minimally invasive joint surgery.
During minimally invasive surgery, an orthopedic surgeon will make one or more keyhole incisions, also known as ports. These incisions often measure less than half an inch, differing from longer traditional incisions. The surgical instruments and endoscope — a small lighted camera — are placed through the incision to perform the surgery. While most minimally invasive procedures involve anesthesia, your surgeon and anesthesiologist will determine the best course based on individual factors related to you and the surgery.
A few factors that might impact your eligibility for minimally invasive procedures include:
Your provider will perform a full evaluation to determine your eligibility for minimally invasive joint surgery. These techniques were previously available only for minimally invasive knee replacements, but they are now used for many other types of joint surgeries, such as shoulder or hip replacements.
Techniques used in minimally invasive procedures include:
In arthroscopic procedures, a surgeon makes a buttonhole-sized incision and inserts a narrow tool with a video camera at its tip. Then, the surgeon inserts trocars to create entry points for the camera and surgical tools. With the help of a monitor, the surgeon uses narrow instruments to perform the procedure. This process is often used to inspect, diagnose, and repair joint structures. However, joint replacement usually requires a combination of arthroscopy and other minimally invasive surgical techniques.
Arthroscopy helps doctors treat joint conditions with minimal risk of complications. This method can be applied to the following joints:
With state-of-the-art robotic assistance, surgeons can perform more accurate joint procedures. This minimally invasive method utilizes robotic arms equipped with a camera and surgical tools. The surgeon controls these instruments via a surgical console and imaging that provides a detailed view of the site.
While robotic arms are a helpful tool, the surgeon remains in full command of the surgery. Because of its advanced controls, robotic surgery offers enhanced vision, reduces hand tremors and ensures greater stability. This technique is highly efficient, offering benefits like less scarring, reduced complications, short inpatient stay and lower pain levels.
Minimally invasive joint surgery is generally safer and more streamlined than open surgery. Because surgeons won’t need to cut long incisions into the muscle, minimally invasive treatments involve significantly less trauma compared to conventional surgery. The procedure provides a wide range of benefits, including:
Through minimally invasive surgery, those with joint damage can enjoy an enhanced quality of life. Specifically, these techniques can improve pain levels and functional status for those with degenerative joint pain. Both arthroscopy and robotic-assisted surgery achieve superior results, with instrumentation providing greater precision around sensitive tissue.
A major decrease in pain intensity, as well as an improvement in joint function, is found at three, six and 12 months for patients with inflammatory arthritis. In joint resection, arthroscopy leads to reduced discomfort and better intraoperative results.
While minimally invasive joint surgery is a safe choice for individuals looking for minimal tissue trauma, like all surgeries, it has its limitations. Some disadvantages include:
Because rehabilitation is a relatively quick process, patients often leave the hospital after one or two days. Any complications will be observed for up to three days.
After two to six weeks, you may resume some physical activities, though you should avoid intense movement and heavy lifting. In two to six months, the joint should heal, resulting in less pain. You may engage in light exercise at this point.
Starting physical therapy early can help speed recovery. With the assistance of a therapist and a cane or walker, patients often walk on the same day with little pain. Recovery typically involves physical therapy for the first couple of weeks, followed by a check up visit. Postoperative rehabilitation programs are often helpful for healing joints, strengthening muscles, relieving discomfort and restoring mobility.
Your doctor will likely prescribe medication for postoperative pain, though you can also use ice packs, compression, elevation, gentle exercises and deep breathing as ways to alleviate discomfort. Prioritize rest to promote healing, and, if needed, communicate any side effects to your care team.
First, you can set up a consultation to find out more about surgery options and how they align with your needs. Beforehand, consider verifying insurance coverage and gathering relevant medical records, imaging results or previous treatment information.
Preparing for minimally invasive surgery usually involves a preoperative medical evaluation. If necessary, make home arrangements and follow additional instructions from your doctor.
Coming into a surgery healthy and clean helps prevent bacterial infection. There are several things you can do to prepare in the days before an operation:
With over 50 years of experience providing patient-centered care, Fondren Orthopedic Group is a trusted source of medical support across Texas. We offer reliable orthopedic surgery in Houston, Texas.
Whether you have arthritis, pain, injury or need a joint replacement, we are prepared to treat your joint pain through proven techniques. Together, our industry-leading team of orthopedic specialists combines their expertise to ensure comprehensive treatment.
Fondren provides personalized care and treatment plans tailored to your needs. When exploring your options, you can contact us or schedule an appointment online to determine if minimally invasive joint surgery is the right fit for you.
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