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Medical Author:

B Sonny Bal, MD

Medical Editor:

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, is a U.S. board-certified Anatomic Pathologist with subspecialty training in the fields of Experimental and Molecular Pathology. Dr. Stöppler's educational background includes a BA with Highest Distinction from the University of Virginia and an MD from the University of North Carolina. She completed residency training in Anatomic Pathology at Georgetown University followed by subspecialty fellowship training in molecular diagnostics and experimental pathology.

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Results

Minimally invasive knee replacement surgery is a new procedure. Short-term results are promising. Surgeons are gaining more experience with these new techniques. If the knee implants are placed properly, the new knee should last through several decades of reasonable use, as long as precautions and activity recommendations given by the surgeon are followed.

Minimally invasive knee replacements allow earlier discharge from the hospital, less pain, and a faster return to day-to-day activities. Less physical therapy is needed after discharge. However, there are specific complications for any new procedure. The experience of the surgeon is also a factor. Surgeon selection and patient education are very important when it comes to new surgical techniques.