Advanced surgical techniques and technology in orthopedic surgery
Over the past few years, there have been great advances in the treatment options, implants, and minimally invasive techniques to hip and knee replacement. These techniques offer fewer complications, fewer infections, greater satisfaction, and shorter recovery times. And advanced technology, such as 3D preoperative planning, allows surgeons to make patient-specific templates and determine what implant and position is best suited for each, individual patient. This level of personalization results in overwhelmingly positive outcomes that succeed patient expectations.
Advanced technique in partial knee replacement: Uni-compartmental approach
Today, orthopedic surgeons can provide equal or better clinical and functional outcomes to patients suffering from arthritis by utilizing a “partial” or unicompartmental approach. This minimally invasive surgery utilizes a smaller incision and, unlike a total knee replacement, only resurfaces the damaged bone and cartilage. All the knee’s ligaments and tendons, along with their muscles are left undisturbed while the knee is returned to its pre-diseased state, leading to a more natural feeling knee.
If a total knee replacement is necessary, the kinematic alignment approach is the only approach that returns the knee to its pre-diseased alignment, balance, and orientation. It allows a surgeon to reestablish the knee’s rotational axes. By using instruments that put the knee in its most natural position the need for ligament releases is eliminated. Patients who have had this procedure after a conventional knee replacement say it feels more like their natural knee and less artificial.
Advanced technique in total hip replacement: Direct anterior approach
The direct anterior approach to total hip replacement is a minimally invasive surgery to replace the hip joint without cutting through any muscles or releasing any tendons. A traditional hip replacement involves cutting or splitting the major muscles around the hip to access the hip joint. This leads to extended healing times and dislocation precautions. With an anterior hip replacement, patients enjoy a more rapid initial recovery, utilize narcotics less, and return to work and sporting activities faster than with a conventional or posterior hip approach.
Advantages of both approaches:
Shorter operative time
Fewer complications, such as minimal blood loss
Less risk, therefore considered safer
Quicker recovery and return to normal activities
Less damage to major muscles
Preservation of ligaments, tendons and muscles
Smaller incision, therefore minimal scarring
Movement of the joint remains more normal
Less post-operative restrictions
