Introduction

Many people find that knee pain can make simple activities like walking or climbing stairs difficult and painful. The good news is that modern medicine has made great strides in knee replacement surgery. One of these advancements is minimally invasive knee replacement surgery. This procedure can help relieve your pain and get you back to doing the things you love, often with less pain and a faster recovery than traditional surgery. In this article, we'll explain everything you need to know about minimally invasive knee replacement surgery in simple terms. We'll cover what it is, why it's done, and what you can expect before, during, and after the procedure. 

Symptoms That May Indicate the Need for Knee Replacement
Before we dive into the details of the surgery, let's talk about why someone might need a knee replacement in the first place. Here are some common symptoms that could indicate you might benefit from knee replacement surgery:

• Severe knee pain that limits your everyday activities (like walking, climbing stairs, or getting in and out of chairs)
• Moderate to severe pain while resting, either day or night
• Long-lasting knee inflammation and swelling that doesn't get better with rest or medications
• Knee stiffness

Failure to substantially improve with other treatments such as anti-inflammatory medications, cortisone injections, lubricating injections, physical therapy, or other surgeries

If you are experiencing several of these symptoms, especially if they're affecting your quality of life, it might be time to talk to your doctor about knee replacement surgery.

About the Procedure
Minimally invasive knee replacement surgery is a modern technique for replacing a damaged knee joint. The main goal is the same as traditional knee replacement: to relieve pain and improve knee function. The key difference is in how the surgery is performed. In a minimally invasive procedure, the surgeon makes smaller cuts (incisions) and uses specialized instruments to work through these smaller openings. This approach causes less damage to the muscles and other soft tissues around your knee.

Here's a simple breakdown of what happens during the surgery:

• The surgeon makes one or more small cuts around your knee. These cuts are usually 3 to 6 inches long, compared to the 8 to 10-inch cuts used in traditional surgery.
• Special instruments are used to work through these smaller openings to remove the damaged parts of your knee joint.
• The surgeon then places the new artificial knee joint components, just like in traditional surgery.
• Finally, the incisions are closed with stitches or staples, and a bandage is applied.
• The entire procedure usually takes about 1 to 2 hours, which is similar to traditional knee replacement surgery.

Different Types of Minimally Invasive Knee Replacement
There are a few different approaches to minimally invasive knee replacement. The main types include:

• Mini-midvastus approach: This involves a small cut on the front of the knee and moving aside a muscle called the vastus medialis.
• Subvastus approach: In this method, the surgeon works under the vastus medialis muscle without cutting into it.
• Quadriceps-sparing approach: This technique avoids cutting into the quadriceps tendon or muscle at all.
• Minimally invasive unicompartmental knee replacement: This is used when only one part of the knee joint needs to be replaced.

The type of approach used depends on factors like your specific knee problem, your body type, and your surgeon's expertise. Your doctor will discuss which approach is best for your situation.

Who Requires Minimally Invasive Knee Replacement? When is It Suggested?
Minimally invasive knee replacement is typically suggested for people who have severe knee arthritis that hasn't responded well to other treatments. It might be right for you if:

• You have severe knee pain that limits your daily activities
• Other treatments like medications, physical therapy, and injections haven't provided enough relief
• You are in relatively good health overall
• You are motivated to do physical therapy and exercise after surgery
• However, this procedure isn't suitable for everyone. It might not be recommended if:
• You are very overweight
• You have significant deformity of your knee
• You have had previous knee surgeries
• You have certain health conditions that could increase the risk of complications
• Your doctor will carefully evaluate your individual situation to determine if minimally invasive knee replacement is the best option for you.

Alternatives to Minimally Invasive Knee Replacement
Before considering any type of knee replacement surgery, your doctor will likely suggest trying other treatments first. These may include:

• Lifestyle changes: Losing weight if needed, low-impact exercises, and using a cane or walker can sometimes help relieve knee pain.
• Physical therapy: Strengthening the muscles around your knee can improve stability and reduce pain.
• Medications: Over-the-counter or prescription pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs can help manage pain.
• Injections: Corticosteroid injections can reduce inflammation, while hyaluronic acid injections can improve lubrication in the joint.
• Traditional knee replacement: If minimally invasive surgery isn't suitable for you, traditional knee replacement is still an excellent option with good outcomes.
• Partial knee replacement: If only part of your knee is damaged, you might be a candidate for partial knee replacement.

Why is Minimally Invasive Knee Replacement Conducted?
The main reasons for performing minimally invasive knee replacement are similar to those for traditional knee replacement:

• Pain relief: The primary goal is to relieve the severe pain caused by knee arthritis or other knee conditions.
• Improved function: Replacing the damaged knee joint can help you move more easily and get back to activities you enjoy.
• Better quality of life: With less pain and better mobility, many people find their overall quality of life improves significantly.
• Correcting deformities: In some cases, knee replacement can help correct knee deformities like bowing of the leg.

The specific benefits of the minimally invasive approach include:

• Less tissue damage: Smaller incisions and specialized techniques mean less damage to muscles and other soft tissues around the knee.
• Potentially faster recovery: Many people find they can get back on their feet more quickly after minimally invasive surgery.
• Less pain after surgery: The smaller incisions often result in less post-operative pain.
• Shorter hospital stay: Some patients can go home sooner after minimally invasive surgery compared to traditional surgery.
• Better cosmetic result: Smaller incisions usually mean smaller scars.

It's important to note that while these benefits are possible, they're not guaranteed for every patient. The outcomes can vary depending on individual factors.

What to Expect?

Before the Procedure
Preparing for minimally invasive knee replacement involves several steps:

• Medical evaluation: Your doctor will review your medical history and perform a physical exam. They might also order tests like:
• Blood tests
• X-rays
• MRI or CT scan of your knee
• Electrocardiogram (ECG) to check your heart
• Medication review: Tell your doctor about all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. You might need to stop taking certain medications before surgery.
• Prepare your home: Set up your home for your recovery. This might include:
• Arranging a bedroom on the ground floor if possible
• Removing trip hazards like loose rugs
• Installing handrails in the bathroom if needed
• Arranging for help with daily tasks for the first few weeks after surgery
• Pre-surgery exercises: Your doctor might recommend exercises to strengthen your knee before surgery.
• Fasting: You will likely be asked not to eat or drink anything for several hours before the surgery.
• Arrange for transportation: You won't be able to drive yourself home after the surgery, so make sure someone can take you.
• Pack a small bag: If you are staying overnight in the hospital, bring essentials like toiletries and comfortable clothes.

During the Procedure
On the day of your surgery:

• Arrival: You will check in at the hospital and change into a hospital gown.
• Anaesthesia: You will meet with the anaesthesiologist to discuss the type of anaesthesia you will receive. This could be:
• General anaesthesia (you are completely asleep)
• Regional anaesthesia (you are awake but can't feel anything from the waist down)
• Procedure: The surgery itself usually takes 1 to 2 hours. Here's what happens:
• The surgeon makes small incisions around your knee
• Special instruments are used to remove the damaged parts of your knee joint
• The artificial knee components are put in place
• The incisions are closed with stitches or staples
• A bandage is applied
• Recovery room: After surgery, you will be moved to a recovery room where nurses will monitor your vital signs as you wake up from anaesthesia.

After the Procedure
After your surgery:

• Hospital stay: You might be able to go home the same day, or you might stay in the hospital for 1-3 days.
• Pain management: You will be given pain medication to keep you comfortable. This might be through an IV at first, then switch to oral medication.
• Early mobilization: You will be encouraged to start moving your knee and walking as soon as possible, often the same day as surgery. A physical therapist will teach you exercises and how to use a walker or crutches.
• Wound care: You will receive instructions on how to care for your incision and change your bandage.
• Follow-up appointments: Your doctor will schedule follow-up visits to check your progress and remove stitches if needed.
• Physical therapy: You will start a physical therapy program to help strengthen your knee and improve your range of motion.

Remember, everyone's recovery is different. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully for the best possible outcome.

Recovery After Minimally Invasive Knee Replacement
Recovery after minimally invasive knee replacement is often faster than with traditional surgery, but it still takes time and effort. Here's what you can expect:

Immediate Recovery (First Few Weeks)
Pain management: You will need to take pain medication as prescribed by your doctor. Ice packs can also help reduce pain and swelling.

• Walking: You will start walking with a walker or crutches right away, gradually increasing the distance as you are able.
• Exercises: Your physical therapist will teach you exercises to do at home. These are crucial for your recovery.
• Wound care: Keep your incision clean and dry. Follow your doctor's instructions for changing the bandage.
• Rest: While movement is important, make sure to also get plenty of rest.

Ongoing Recovery (First Few Months)
Physical therapy: Continue with your physical therapy program. This usually lasts for several weeks to a few months.

• Gradual increase in activities: You will slowly be able to do more activities, but avoid high-impact exercises.
• Driving: Most people can start driving again after about 4-6 weeks, once they're no longer taking strong pain medications.
• Return to work: Depending on your job, you might be able to return to work after 4-6 weeks.

Long-Term Recovery
Continued improvement: You will likely continue to see improvements in your knee function for up to a year after surgery.

• Regular exercise: Staying active with low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, or cycling can help maintain your knee health.
• Weight management: Maintaining a healthy weight reduces stress on your new knee joint.
• Follow-up appointments: Continue to see your doctor for regular check-ups.

Remember, recovery is a gradual process. Be patient with yourself and follow your doctor's and physical therapist's instructions for the best results.

Risks and Complications
While minimally invasive knee replacement is generally safe, like all surgeries, it does carry some risks. It's important to understand these risks, but also remember that complications are relatively rare and your medical team is trained to handle them if they occur.

Risks
Risks are potential problems that could happen during or after the surgery. These include:

• Infection: This can occur at the incision site or deep around the prosthesis.
• Blood clots: These can form in the leg veins or lungs.
• Implant problems: The implant may loosen, wear out, or become infected over time.
• Continued pain: Some people may still experience some pain after surgery.
• Nerve or blood vessel damage: There's a small risk of injury to nerves or blood vessels around the knee.

Complications
Complications are problems that can occur after the surgery. These might include:

• Stiffness: Some people may develop stiffness in the knee that limits range of motion.
• Wound healing problems: The incision may heal slowly or poorly.
• Allergic reactions: Some people may react to the anaesthesia or materials in the implant.
• Uneven leg length: Rarely, the procedure may result in a slight difference in leg length.

Risks for Patients with Co-morbidities
If you have other health conditions, you might be at higher risk for certain complications:

• Diabetes: People with diabetes might have a higher risk of infection and slower wound healing.
• Obesity: This can make the surgery technically more challenging and increase the risk of complications.
• Heart disease: This can increase the risk of complications from anaesthesia.
• Lung disease: There might be a higher risk of breathing problems after surgery.
• Rheumatoid arthritis: This condition can increase the risk of infection and slow healing.

The benefits of the surgery often outweigh the risks for most people. Your medical team will carefully monitor you during and after the surgery to catch and address any problems early.

Benefits of Minimally Invasive Knee Replacement
Minimally invasive knee replacement can offer several benefits compared to traditional knee replacement surgery:

• Less pain: Many patients report less pain after surgery due to the smaller incisions and less tissue damage.
• Faster recovery: The less invasive approach often leads to a quicker return to normal activities.
• Shorter hospital stay: Some patients can go home the same day or after a shorter hospital stay.
• Less blood loss: The smaller incisions typically result in less blood loss during surgery.
• Better cosmetic result: Smaller incisions usually mean smaller, less noticeable scars.
• Improved range of motion: Some studies suggest that patients may achieve a better range of motion more quickly after minimally invasive surgery.
• Less muscle damage: The technique aims to avoid cutting major muscles, which can lead to faster strength recovery.
• Reduced risk of certain complications: The smaller incisions may reduce the risk of certain complications like infection.
• Quicker return to work: Many patients can return to work and other activities sooner than with traditional surgery.
• Improved quality of life: By reducing pain and improving mobility, the surgery can significantly enhance overall quality of life.
• Long-lasting results: Like traditional knee replacement, the results of minimally invasive surgery can last for many years, often 15-20 years or more.
• High patient satisfaction: Many patients report high satisfaction with the results of their minimally invasive knee replacement.

Remember, while these benefits are possible, individual results can vary. It's important to have realistic expectations and to follow your doctor's instructions for the best possible outcome.

Conclusion
Minimally invasive knee replacement surgery is a modern approach to treating severe knee pain and disability caused by conditions like arthritis. It offers the potential for less pain, faster recovery, and smaller scars compared to traditional knee replacement surgery. The key to a successful outcome is working closely with your healthcare team, following their instructions carefully, and committing to the rehabilitation process. Remember, the goal of knee replacement surgery is to help you get back to doing the things you love with less pain. With proper care and rehabilitation, many people find that their new knee allows them to return to a more active, pain-free lifestyle.

 

Why Choose Apollo Hospitals for Minimally Invasive Knee Replacement Surgery

1. Advanced Technology
   
   • Uses high-quality Swiss 'AO' systems for fracture stabilization
   • Employs image intensifiers to confirm perfect fracture fixations
   • Offers robotic-assisted knee replacement surgery for enhanced precision
2. Experienced Surgical Team
   
   • Highly skilled orthopaedic surgeons trained in minimally invasive techniques
   • Specialists in using advanced technologies like robotic systems
3. Innovative Procedures
   
   • Performs revolutionary Minimally Invasive Knee Replacement (Resurface) Surgery (MIKRS)
   • Offers procedures like OrthoGlide Medial Knee system surgery
4. Patient Benefits
   
   • Smaller incisions (about 2 inches) compared to traditional surgery
   • Less tissue damage and blood loss
   • Faster recovery and rehabilitation
   • Reduced post-operative pain
   • Lower risk of infection
   • Possibility of same-day discharge
5. Cost-Effective
   
   • More affordable than traditional total knee replacement
   • Potential for reduced overall costs due to shorter hospital stays
6. Customized Treatment
   
   • Tailored surgical plans based on individual patient anatomy
   • Personalized care programs for optimal outcomes
7. Comprehensive Care
   
   • Offers pre-operative evaluations, surgery, and post-operative rehabilitation
   • Multi-disciplinary approach for holistic patient care
8. Proven Track Record
   
   • Successfully performed numerous complex orthopaedic surgeries
   • High patient satisfaction rates
9. State-of-the-art Facilities
   
   • Modern operating rooms equipped for minimally invasive procedures
   • Advanced imaging and diagnostic capabilities
10. Research and Innovation
    Participates in clinical trials and research in orthopaedics
    Continuously introduces new treatment methods and technologies
    
     

By choosing Apollo Hospitals for minimally invasive knee replacement surgery, patients can expect cutting-edge care, experienced surgeons, and a focus on faster recovery and better outcomes.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• How long does the minimally invasive knee replacement surgery take?
  The procedure typically takes 1 to 2 hours, similar to traditional knee replacement surgery.
• Will I be able to do all activities after minimally invasive knee replacement?
  Most people can return to low-impact activities like walking, swimming, and cycling. However, high-impact activities like running or jumping are usually not recommended to protect the artificial joint.
• How long does the artificial knee joint last?
  Modern knee replacements can last 15-20 years or more. However, the lifespan of the implant can vary depending on factors like your activity level, weight, and how well you follow post-operative instructions.
• Is minimally invasive knee replacement covered by insurance in India?
  Most health insurance plans in India cover knee replacement surgery, including minimally invasive procedures. However, it's always best to check with your specific insurance provider about coverage details.
• How soon can I return to work after minimally invasive knee replacement?
  The time to return to work varies depending on the type of work you do. Many people can return to desk jobs within 4-6 weeks. For more physically demanding jobs, it might take 8-12 weeks or more. Your doctor will provide specific guidance based on your situation.