MINIMALLY INVASIVE HIP REPLACEMENT

Single-incision surgery

In this minimally invasive hip replacement procedure, the surgeon places a single incision that typically ranges from three to six inches. The incision’s length depends on the patient’s size as well as the difficulty level of the procedure.

The surgeon typically places the incision on the outside of the hip. The tendons and muscles are detached from the hip. However, this is to a lesser degree than in the case of traditional hip replacement surgery. After the surgeon inserts the implants, these are repaired. This prompts healing and prevents hip dislocation.

Two-incision surgery

In this minimally invasive hip replacement procedure, the surgeon places 2 small incisions:

  • A two to three-inch incision over the groin for socket placement
  • A one to two-inch incision over the buttock for femoral stem placement

The surgeon may need guidance from x-rays to undertake the two-incision procedure. Hospital stay in case of a minimally invasive procedure is likely to be shorter than in case of a traditional surgery. Physical rehab is a crucial part of the recovery process. The surgeon or a physical therapist will provide the patient with particular exercises to help restore their strength and increase their range of motion.

MINIMALLY INVASIVE KNEE REPLACEMENT

The surgeon performs a minimally invasive knee replacement surgery through a relatively small incision which is four to six inches (against eight to ten inches for traditional knee replacement surgery.) A smaller incision causes only minor disturbance to the surrounding tissue.

Additionally, the technique to open the knee is comparatively less invasive. Techniques employed in minimally invasive knee replacement procedures are “quadriceps-sparing.” This means they do not cause damage to the quadriceps muscles and tendons in the front part of the thigh.

Other minimally invasive techniques known as “midvastus” and “subvastus” involve the placement of small incisions in the muscle. These two are less invasive in comparison to traditional knee replacement surgery. As the techniques used to expose the joint lead to less trauma to the muscle, it may cause less post-operative pain and help in faster recovery.

The hospital stay post minimally invasive surgery is also shorter in comparison to traditional surgery. Physical rehab is an integral component of recovery. The surgeon or a physical therapist will explain to the patient particular exercises that will help increase their increase strength and range of motion.

Board-certified orthopedic surgeon Dr. Brandon Gough receives patients from Phoenix, Scottsdale, Arizona, and other cities and suburbs in this part of the country for hip and knee surgery.

For more information about hip and knee procedures and treatments by Arizona Board certified orthopedic surgeon, Brandon Gough, M.D., please click here or call us at 602-359-3088. Taking new patients in and around Phoenix, Scottsdale, Glendale, Tempe, Mesa and surrounding Arizona cities.