Minimally invasive total hip and knee arthroplasty-implications for the elderly patient

Abstract

Overall, it can be concluded that because of the aging society, an increasing number of elderly people will be undergoing total joint arthroplasty. These elderly patients have an increased risk for serious complications after primary THA or TKA. However, the overall complication rates remain low. The use of MIS total joint arthroplasty is also increasing, although its risks and benefits are still an ongoing issue of debate in the orthopedic community. MIS total joint arthroplasty aims at decreasing the surgical incision and minimizing damage to the underlying soft tissue to accelerate postoperative recovery and an earlier return to normal function. A critical look at the literature on MIS shows that the term minimally invasive is often used for a conventional total joint arthroplasty performed through a smaller skin incision. Research has shown promising results of using MIS in elderly patients; it seems that compared with younger patients, elderly patients benefit more from a minimally invasive approach.