High Tech Spot

As a result of arthritis, often times the hips and knees require replacement with artificial joints to restore function and movement and improve quality of life.  Traditionally, joint replacement surgery required large incisions and a long recovery period. Today, there is an alternative to conventional hip and knee replacements with an exciting new surgical approach; the minimally invasive hip replacement and the minimally invasive knee replacement surgeries. These techniques utilize a 4-41/2 inch incision, which is approximately one half to one third the length of a traditional incision, which is typically 8-10 inches long.  This makes recovering a much easier process. While every patient is not a candidate for these procedures, many patients can undergo the hip or knee replacement through this small incision technique.

The hip and knee replacement surgeries involve removing the damaged portion of the hip or knee and replacing it with an artificial implant called a prosthesis. This device is a replacement for the natural joint allowing for frictionless movement.

This minimally invasive technique results in less pain and patients spend less time in the hospital.  They also have less overall recovery time,  less blood loss and can be active sooner. Patients may be able to return to many aspects of  their daily lives within 4-6 weeks, instead of the 3-4 month recovery period that usually follows traditional surgery.
 
For more information on the minimally invasive hip or knee replacement surgeries, or to find out if you are a candidate, call Inland Orthopaedics of Spokane at (509) 838-7100 or (866) 239-3530 and get back to life again!