Minimally invasive (Subvastus) muscle sparing TKA

A key factor in minimally invasive knee surgery is protecting and preserving muscles. This is particularly true for knee joint replacement. The muscles provide strength and control of your knee. The muscles are also an important factor in regaining motion. As you would expect, not cutting or detaching muscles around the knee results in less pain, better motion and faster recovery.

The subvastus approach to the knee joint has been described as an alternative to traditional approaches which involve a large incision with division of the quadriceps mechanism. The subvastus is a minimally invasive, muscle-sparing approach; it is truly “quadriceps-sparing.” Reported literature suggests that the utilization of this minimally invasive approach allows patients improved and quicker early recovery after total knee replacement surgery.

Many studies demonstrate significant advantages including more rapid recovery, better pain scores with decrease pain medication consumption, less blood loss and better short term knee range of motion when comparing the subvastus approach to more traditional approaches. Furthermore, it allows for quicker advancement of rehabilitation after knee surgery; thereby improving patient outcomes.

Knee procedures performed through the subvastus approach are more technically demanding than procedures performed through a traditional incision. Dr. Cien’s advanced fellowship training has given him the experience performing subvastus minimally invasive knee replacement procedures. To learn more, please CONTACT US for an appointment .