The field of joint replacement is undergoing a revolution with new methods emphasizing the preservation of soft tissues that surround and support the joint. Here’s how advanced techniques such as the direct anterior approach (DAA) for hip replacement and cutting edge robotic technologies help preserve soft tissues and improve outcomes for joint replacement procedures.
- Access Through Natural Pathways: Soft tissue sparing techniques such as the direct anterior approach enable access to the joint through natural spaces between muscles, avoiding the need to cut or detach major muscle groups. This minimizes trauma to critical structures, such as tendons and ligaments, and promotes quicker recovery.
- Precision-Guided Planning with Robotics: Robotics-assisted systems create a detailed, 3D map of the patient’s anatomy, allowing surgeons to develop a highly accurate surgical plan. This ensures that only the necessary areas are targeted, reducing unnecessary handling or disruption of soft tissues.
- Smaller Incisions with Targeted Techniques: Both the DAA and robotics enable minimally invasive procedures through smaller incisions. This limits the surgical footprint and reduces the risk of damaging surrounding muscles and connective tissues.
- Real-Time Feedback and Control: Robotics provide surgeons with real-time imaging and feedback during the procedure, allowing them to make adjustments without overextending or straining soft tissues. This precision reduces trauma and ensures optimal implant alignment.
- Improved Tissue Recovery Post-Surgery: By preserving the integrity of muscles, tendons, and ligaments, these techniques result in less post-operative swelling, scarring, and discomfort, contributing to a faster and smoother recovery process.
- Improved Mobility and Function: Maintaining the integrity of the muscles and tendons helps support the joint and enhances stability. This often results in better long-term mobility and a more natural range of motion.
- Lower Risk of Complications: The reduced trauma to soft tissues lowers the risk of complications, such as infections or dislocations, and can contribute to a more predictable recovery process.
Who Can Benefit from Soft-Tissue Sparing Procedures
These advanced techniques are suitable for many patients but may not be ideal for everyone. Factors like overall health, the severity of joint damage, and lifestyle goals will determine if a soft-tissue sparing approach is right for you.
Dr. Claps specializes in advanced tissue-sparing hip and knee replacements. Schedule a consultation today to see if you could benefit from these procedures.
AUTHOR: Charles Claps, DO is a board-certified fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in robotic assisted joint replacement surgery at Resurgens Orthopaedics in Atlanta. Dr. Claps is an industry leader in Mako Robotic Assisted Hip and Knee replacement across Georgia, and an active member of the American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons, the American Association of Orthopaedic Surgeons, and the American Osteopathic Academy of Orthopedics.