PATIENT
EDUCATION

Minimally Invasive Total Knee Replacement

To achieve optimal results, our specialists use advanced technology for better precision. Dr. John Hoffman, one of our experienced orthopaedic surgeons, uses patient-specific cutting guides to perform a more efficient operation with better accuracy. 3D images are taken of your knee. Dr. Hoffman uses this advanced technology to create a customized cutting piece to use as a guide during the procedure, thereby allowing precise placement of the implants. Dr. Hoffman has also played an integral part in the development of the rapid recovery program at UnityPoint hospital, where he has developed protocols for pain control and perioperative procedures to allow for patients to be discharged 24 hours after a total knee replacement. As one of only a few surgeons in the entire state performing outpatient total joint replacements, Dr. Hoffman’s extensive experience of over 500 total joint procedures each year allows for a much lower length of stay and complication rate as compared to the national average.

Unicompartmental (Partial) Knee Replacement (Minimally Invasive, Outpatient Surgery)

A unicompartmental, or partial, knee replacement is designed to reduce pain and repair functional problems in the knee when only one section is damaged. The unicompartmental procedure is only available to osteoarthritic patients who have arthritis affecting one compartment of the knee.

The three primary compartments of the knee include the medial (inside) compartment, the lateral (outside) compartment, and the patellofemoral (front) compartment, which is located between the kneecap and the thighbone. To spare the healthy, normal functioning portion of the knee, advanced surgical techniques used by Dr. Hoffman and Dr. Tuvi Mendel allow for only the damaged portion of the knee to be replaced. The unicompartmental knee replacement only replaces one compartment, leaving the healthy cartilage and bone in the other areas intact. It can often result in a faster recovery time, minimized pain, and less blood loss.

Because of the limited soft-tissue dissection, minimal blood loss, and very small amount of bone removal, patients are typically discharged the day of surgery with this outpatient procedure.

That evening, a physical therapist and home health nurse will meet you at home to begin your postoperative physical therapy regimen and to administer antibiotics and assist with pain control as needed.*

For the first 2 weeks postoperatively, you will receive daily visits from both your physical therapist and your nurse.* You will have a 2-week postoperative visit with your surgeon. Typically at your 2-week visit, you’ll be given permission to start driving again.

At 3 to 4 weeks postoperatively, most patients are able to return to activity/work as tolerated.

*For qualifying patients