Minimally Invasive Orthopaedic Surgeries: Benefits and Limitations
Dr Alan Cheung
Senior Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon in Singapore
MBBS (London), MRCS (England), FRCS (Trauma and Orthopaedics, England), Diploma in Sport and Exercise Medicine (UK), Fellow of the European Board of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)
Hearing the word “surgery” can feel daunting, with concerns about long recovery periods, large scars or time away from work. Fortunately, orthopaedic care has progressed significantly over the years. In many cases, minimally invasive orthopaedic surgery offers an alternative, preferred approach, using smaller incisions and targeted techniques to minimise tissue disruption and support a faster recovery.
But while these techniques bring clear advantages, they are not suitable for every condition or individual. Let us explore what minimally invasive orthopaedic surgery involves, its key benefits and its limitations, so you can make a more informed decision about your treatment options.
Benefits of Minimally Invasive Orthopaedic Surgeries
Minimally invasive techniques are increasingly used in orthopaedic care and offer numerous advantages for eligible patients:
Smaller Incisions
Procedures are performed through a few small incisions, minimising disruption to the skin and underlying tissues and resulting in smaller scars.
Potentially Shorter Hospital Stay
Many minimally invasive procedures allow for same-day discharge or significantly shorter hospital stays.
Earlier Return to Daily Activities
Patients generally experience a faster return to basic daily activities due to reduced tissue injury as compared to traditional open surgery.
Reduced Postoperative Pain
Smaller incisions and reduced tissue disruption means less post-operative pain, allowing one to have a more manageable recovery.
Lower Risk of Complications
Smaller incisions lowers the risk of infection, making post-operative care simpler for many patients.
What are the Limitations?
Although minimally invasive surgery offers many advantages, it is not suitable in all cases. Consulting an orthopaedic specialist can help you determine whether you’re a suitable candidate, as well as the best course of action.
Not Suitable for Every Condition
Certain injuries, complex fractures or advanced degenerative changes require open surgery to allow adequate visualisation, precise reconstruction or secure stabilisation.
Individual Patient Factors
In determining suitability, doctors also have to consider multiple patient-specific factors, including anatomy, severity of disease, prior surgeries and overall health.
Orthopaedic Conditions Treated by Minimally Invasive Surgery
Minimally invasive orthopaedic surgery is commonly used for the following conditions:
Joint Arthritis
: Arthroscopic procedures may be used to assess, clean or repair damaged cartilage and joint surfaces in early to moderate disease.Ligament and Tendon Injuries
: Repairs or reconstructions, such as ACL surgery or tendon repair, can often be performed through small incisions.Herniated or Bulging Discs
: Minimally invasive spine techniques relieve nerve compression caused by disc protrusion.Fractures
: Certain fractures can be stabilised using percutaneous screws, pins or plates without large open incisions.Rotator Cuff Tears
: Shoulder arthroscopy allows repair of torn shoulder tendons with reduced soft tissue disruption.Meniscus or Cartilage Injuries
: Knee arthroscopy is commonly used to treat meniscal tears or cartilage damage.
If you are experiencing bone and joint problems, a consultation with an orthopaedic surgeon can help determine whether surgery is required, and whether a minimally invasive approach is suitable for your case. Through careful assessment and imaging review, your surgeon can advise on the most appropriate treatment option to support recovery, function and long-term outcomes. Contact us to schedule an appointment with Dr Alan Cheung today.
