Imagine repairing your car engine through a few tiny keyholes instead of taking the whole thing apart. That’s the essence of minimally invasive surgery (MIS) in orthopedics. It offers a gentler approach to repairing bones and joints, using smaller incisions, specialized tools, and advanced imaging technology. This often leads to less pain, faster recovery, and smaller scars compared to traditional open surgery.

What is it?

MIS is a surgical technique that minimizes tissue disruption, leading to several benefits:

• Smaller incisions (often less than an inch)
• Reduced pain and scarring
• Faster healing and recovery
• Shorter hospital stays
• Lower risk of infection
• Quicker return to daily activities

Common Conditions Treated with MIS:

• Joint Arthroscopy:
  
  • Repairs cartilage tears, meniscal tears, and ligament injuries in the knee, shoulder, hip, or ankle.
  • Uses a tiny camera and small tools to access the joint through small incisions.
• Minimally Invasive Joint Replacement:
  
  • Replaces damaged hips, knees, or shoulders with artificial implants.
  • Uses smaller incisions and specialized tools to minimize muscle damage and promote faster recovery.
• Fracture Repair:
  
  • Fixes broken bones with smaller incisions and specialized instruments.
  • Reduces muscle disruption and promotes faster healing.
• Spinal Surgery:
  
  • Addresses herniated discs and spinal stenosis with smaller incisions and specialized techniques.
  • Reduces muscle damage and promotes faster recovery.

Is MIS Right for Me?

Your doctor will assess your condition, overall health, and the specific procedure to determine if MIS is the best option. Factors to consider include:

• The complexity of your condition
• Your age and overall health
• The surgeon’s expertise in MIS techniques

What to Expect During and After Surgery:

• Anesthesia: General or regional anesthesia will be used to keep you comfortable.
• Smaller incisions: The surgeon will make tiny cuts, often less than an inch long.
• Specialized tools and cameras: These allow for precise visualization and manipulation of tissues.
• Faster recovery: You’ll likely experience less pain, have smaller scars, and be able to move and return to activities sooner than with traditional surgery.
• Physical therapy: Exercises will help you regain strength and flexibility after surgery.

Remember, MIS is a valuable tool, but it’s not a shortcut. It’s still surgery, and recovery takes time and effort. Open communication with your doctor is crucial to understanding your options, expectations, and potential risks.