1. What is Stryker MIS Knee Joint Replacement?
2. How does the MIS Knee Joint Replacement differ from standard knee replacement?
3. How will the MIS Knee Joint Replacement benefit total knee replacement recipients?
4. Is MIS Knee Joint Replacement a new concept? Why was it developed?
5. Is there any danger of complications associated with MIS Knee Joint Replacement?
6. Are all surgeons trained to perform the MIS Knee Joint Replacement technique? Is there a steep learning curve in learning how to perform this type of surgery?
7. Can any patient requiring a total knee replacement have a MIS Knee Joint Replacement? If not, what types of patients can have a MIS Knee Joint Replacement?
8. Does the MIS Knee Joint Replacement cost more than conventional knee replacement?

1. What is Stryker MIS Knee Joint Replacement?

MIS Knee Joint Replacement is a breakthrough surgical technique that adapts the latest advances in minimally invasive surgery and instrumentation to total knee replacement. The Stryker MIS Knee Joint Replacement technique was pioneered by the world-renowned joint replacement expert, Dr. Peter Bonutti. The patented technique (US Patent #6,702,821) and instrumentation enable surgeons to perform total knee replacement through an incision as small as 3 to 4 inches long and to reduce collateral damage to leg muscles and tendons.
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2. How does the MIS Knee Joint Replacement differ from standard knee replacement?

MIS Knee Joint Replacement uses the same quality knee implants, but with new minimally invasive surgical techniques and instruments. The entire procedure is performed through an incision as small as 3 to 4 inches, dissecting only the midvastus muscle. The different surfaces in the knee joint are carefully exposed and replaced, one at a time, through that same incision. The actual resurfacing of the knee joint, as well as the implanting of the prosthesis are similar to the traditional technique.
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3. How will the MIS Knee Joint Replacement benefit total knee replacement recipients?

Because fewer muscles and tendons have been disturbed with the less invasive technique, their reconstruction is more natural, wound closure is easier, and recovery may be faster. Clinical studies have shown that the midvastus surgical approach used in the MIS technique results in less pain (at both 8 days and 6 weeks after surgery) and quicker restoration of muscle control and strength1. It can take several months to recover from the large incision and muscle disruption with the standard approach.
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4. Is MIS Knee Joint Replacement a new concept? Why was it developed?

MIS Knee Joint Replacement is a relatively new concept, although the developer of Stryker's MIS technique, Dr. Bonutti, has been doing the surgery for several years and is working on a study that will evaluate a group of patients two years after their surgery.
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5. Is there any danger of complications associated with MIS Knee Joint Replacement?

Total knee joint replacement is a major surgery whether done with a conventional technique or with an MIS technique. Any major surgery has risks associated with it. However, when performed by a properly trained surgeon, the risk of complications with MIS should not be greater than with a conventional technique.
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6. Are all surgeons trained to perform the MIS Knee Joint Replacement technique? Is there a steep learning curve in learning how to perform this type of surgery?

No, all surgeons are not trained. However, Stryker offers an extensive training program for surgeons and more surgeons are learning to do MIS Knee Joint Replacement every day. This program includes observation of MIS surgeries, interactive computer based training, and clinical training. The learning curve is not overly steep and much of the technique and instrumentation is very similar to what is used for conventional knee replacement.
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7. Can any patient requiring a total knee replacement have a MIS Knee Joint Replacement? If not, what types of patients can have a MIS Knee Joint Replacement?

Most patients that require a total knee replacement are eligible to receive a MIS Knee Joint Replacement. However, there is a small group of people who may not be eligible. Typically, this group includes very obese or muscular patients. Patients should consult with their doctor if they are eligible to receive MIS Knee Joint Replacement.
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8. Does the MIS Knee Joint Replacement cost more than conventional knee replacement?

Due to the complexity of the US health care system, it is difficult to make generalizations about costs. Patients should consult with their insurance provider, surgeon, and hospital.
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References:
1. White R, Allman J, Trauger J, Dales, B. Clinical Comparison of the Midvastus and Medial Parapatellar Surgical Approaches. Clinical Orthopaedics & Related Research. 1999; 367: 117-122.