You can qualify for minimally invasive knee surgery if you are generally in good health aside from any conditions affecting your knee. Many people with knee arthritis or injuries wonder if they qualify for this advanced surgery. It offers great benefits for the right patients.
This type of surgery uses smaller cuts and protects muscle tissue. Recovery is often quicker than with traditional knee replacement. However, not everyone can have this procedure. Doctors look at several factors to decide if you qualify.
This guide explains who is a good fit for minimally invasive knee surgery. We will cover the following:
- Who Qualifies: Patients with moderate arthritis, a healthy weight, strong muscles, and stable health qualify.
- Who Does Not: Those with severe arthritis, obesity, deformities, or serious health issues may not qualify.
- How to Improve Chances: Patients can stay active, manage their weight and health, and work with their doctor to qualify.
What Makes Minimally Invasive Knee Surgery Different?
Minimally invasive knee surgery uses a more careful approach than traditional methods. Doctors make smaller cuts and avoid cutting major muscles around the knee. According to the Mayo Clinic, this helps protect the soft tissues that support the joint.
The benefits include faster recovery, less pain after surgery, and shorter hospital stays. Many patients get back to daily activities sooner compared to traditional surgery.
The implants used are the same high-quality materials as in regular knee replacements. The long-term results are usually just as good. The main difference is in how the surgery is done.
Who Can Usually Get Minimally Invasive Knee Surgery?
Certain factors make someone a good fit for this type of surgery. Doctors look at specific health metrics and knee conditions before recommending it.
Knee Condition
Patients with moderate knee arthritis or damage are often good candidates. The knee should not have severe deformities or major bone loss. Some cartilage and bone need to be in good shape for the surgery to work well.
Healthy Weight
Being at a healthy weight is important. Patients at an appropriate weight level may heal faster and have fewer problems after surgery.
Strong Muscles
Good muscle strength around the knee helps with recovery and better results.
Stable Health
Patients with well-controlled medical conditions and no major health issues are more likely to qualify.
Age and Activity Level
Younger and more active patients are often better candidates for this procedure.
Who May Not Be a Good Fit for Minimally Invasive Knee Surgery?
According to the Cleveland Clinic, some conditions make this type of surgery harder or impossible to perform. Doctors carefully check these factors when they examine patients.
Severe Arthritis
If arthritis affects the entire knee joint, minimally invasive surgery may not work. Traditional surgery might be needed for extensive damage.
Bone Deformities
Major bone deformities can make the minimally invasive approach too complicated.
Past Knee Surgeries
If you have had major knee surgeries before, it might make surgery difficult. Scar tissue or changes in your knee’s structure may also have the same effect.
Obesity
Being overweight increases risks during surgery, makes the procedure harder to perform, and slows down healing. It can also raise the chance of infections.
Serious Health Issues
Health problems like heart disease, lung issues, or poor circulation can make surgery unsafe. Uncontrolled diabetes or other chronic conditions may also make this procedure difficult to perform and recover from.
How Will My Surgeon Decide if I Can Have Minimally Invasive Knee Surgery?
Surgeons follow a thorough process to determine if this procedure is right for you.
They start with a medical evaluation. This includes reviewing your health history and examining your knee’s function and mobility. Imaging tests like X-rays and MRIs provide a detailed view of your knee to help plan the surgery.
Your overall health, weight, and fitness level are also factors to consider. They look at those, along with your activity goals and expectations.
During the consultation, your surgeon will:
- Explain your options
- Answer questions
- Help you decide on the best treatment
What Are My Options if I Do Not Qualify?
If you are not eligible for minimally invasive knee surgery, there are other options.
Total knee replacement is a proven procedure with excellent results for severe arthritis. Partial knee replacement removes only the damaged part of the knee, preserving healthy tissue.
Non-surgical treatments can also reduce pain and improve mobility. Options like joint injections, bracing, and physical therapy are available.
How Can I Improve My Chances of Qualifying?
Several steps can improve your chances of qualifying for minimally invasive surgery. Good preparation can also lead to better outcomes.
Maintaining a healthy weight is key, as it reduces stress on your knee joints and lowers surgical risks. Even small weight loss can make a big difference.
Staying active helps keep your muscles strong and your joints mobile. Gentle exercises or physical therapy can prepare your knee for surgery.
Managing medical conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart issues is essential. Controlling these reduces risks and improves your overall health.
Work closely with your orthopedic surgeon to prepare. Follow their pre-surgical instructions and ask about additional steps to boost your candidacy.
Minimally Invasive Knee Surgery in Ft. Lauderdale, FL
Qualifying for minimally invasive knee surgery near you depends on certain factors. Your knee condition, overall health, and lifestyle all play important roles. While this approach offers benefits like smaller scars and faster recovery, it suits some patients better than others.
The only way to determine your candidacy is through expert evaluation. A skilled orthopedic surgeon can assess your specific case thoroughly. They will recommend the best treatment option for your unique situation.
Trust Paul Meli Orthopedic Surgery’s Dr. Paul Meli for expert care. As a board-certified and fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Meli provides comprehensive evaluation and treatment options. Call us at (954) 324-7711 or use our online appointment request form to request a consultation.
The best knee specialist near you looks forward to serving you!
