If you’re considering knee replacement surgery, you may be wondering what your options are in terms of incision size. In general, the smaller the incision, the less invasive the surgery. Here’s a look at some of the technology that Dr. Morton utilizes in minimally invasive knee replacement surgery:
Minimally Invasive Knee Replacement: This type of surgery uses a small incision and special instruments to minimize the amount of tissue damage. This results in a faster recovery and less pain after the surgery.
Robotic Knee Replacement: This type of surgery uses a robotic arm to guide the surgeon during the operation. The benefit of this is that it allows for more precise placement of the artificial joint. This results in a smaller incision and less tissue damage.
Smart Knee Replacement: Dr. Morton is the only surgeon who offers Persona IQ®, the smart implant for total knee replacements, which monitors a patient’s condition and provides feedback to the surgeon on how well it is performing. By having this information, we can be sure that your implant will function properly and make any necessary adjustments to treatment along the way.
Rapid Recovery Protocols: Many of Dr. Morton’s patients go home on the day of surgery. There are several important aspects to accomplishing this procedure including adductor canal blocks, tourniquetless knee replacements, and appropriate medications for postoperative pain control. Many patients do not take narcotics after surgery.
Minimally invasive surgery performed by Dr. Morton typically involves smaller incisions compared to traditional knee replacements. Below is a picture of a patient who recently underwent a right minimally invasive robotic total knee replacement 5 months after surgery compared to a scar from surgery performed several years ago by a different provider in Hawaii. Over time, the surgery scars gradually fade in color. The surgical incision is roughly half the length compared to the competitor’s incision. Dr. Morton’s philosophy is that with smaller incisions, there is less pain and a faster recovery.
Minimally Invasive Knee Replacements incisions such as that seen on the right usually are 4- 6 inches long.
Traditional Knee Replacements incisions such as that seen on the left usually are 10-12 inches long.
The goal of these technological improvements is to help you get back to your life as quickly and safely as possible. Talk to Dr. Morton about which options are right for you.
