Minimally invasive surgery is one of the most promising areas of orthopedics. In a traditional hip or knee replacement, a single large incision is made so that a surgeon can access the joint. In some situations, however it’s possible to access the hip and knee joints through smaller incisions, with less disruption to the muscles. The length and location of the incision(s) will depend on the patient’s unique anatomy and the complexity of the procedure.

At Florida Medical Orthopaedics, Sports Medicine & Spine, Dr. Gerald “Trey” Alexander III, M.D., takes a minimally invasive approach to hip and knee surgery whenever possible. As compared to traditional surgery, the minimally invasive approach can potentially lead to:

  • Short recovery times
  • Less pain
  • Lower complication rates

Traditional and minimally invasive procedures both involve the use of the same implants, and Dr. Alexander uses some of today’s latest prosthetic technologies to improve outcomes for his patients. Dr. Alexander also provides each patient with comprehensive postsurgical recovery instructions, including recommendations for physical therapy and activity modification, as needed, to help ensure the fullest possible recovery.

If you’re considering minimally invasive surgery for a hip or knee condition, such as degenerative osteoarthritis, Dr. Alexander can help you explore your options. In general, minimally invasive procedures are most ideally suited for patients who are younger, in good overall health, and at a healthy weight. However, to schedule a consultation and learn more about which options are best for your needs, contact Florida Medical Orthopaedics, Sports Medicine & Spine today.

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